Every October, New York City hosts the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade, the ultimate gathering of festive dogs, excited fans, and over-the-top costumes that bring the spooky spirit.
This year’s event took place on October 17 in Manhattan’s East Village, and the dog Halloween costumes did not disappoint. In fact, some of this year’s costumes were the most impressive yet! Between the parade, the costume contest, and the thousands of dressed-up dogs in attendance, a pet parent could spend all day browsing canine costumes (and brainstorming for their own dog).
NYC resident Maddison Gordon was lucky enough to get a front-row seat for the 36th annual Halloween dog parade, and her view of the adorable event quickly went viral.
I’m so jealous! The Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is one of the must-see items on my bucket list, and videos like this remind me why. Between the creativity of New Yorkers, the festivities of spooky season, and all the adorable dogs—it looks like heaven on Earth!
The tiny dog dressed as Carl’s house from Up looked like he might float away with all those balloons, and the cutie pie dressed as Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Monkey ice cream (he left a note in the comments; his name is Chunk!) made me giggle. I can only imagine how much fun this is to watch in person, though I know from experience that making a dog’s Halloween costume can be just as stressful as it is fun.
Related: Chocolate Labrador’s Annoyed Reaction to His Iconic Halloween Costume Is Truly Priceless
“Never thought I needed to see a dog dressed as Sue Sylvester,” commented @lucy.sings2, “but now that I have it’s absolutely amazing.” See what I mean? This incredible event could make anyone smile, but only one of these decked-out dogs can take home first prize.
Who Won the Dog Halloween Costume Contest?
This year’s costume contest winner combined creativity, cuteness, and NYC culture in the coolest way. They were inspired by the New York Knicks!
This sweet Shih Tzu has no idea what they’ve just won! That ribbon looks like the awards given out at prestigious dog shows, but NYC dog parents will agree that winning this is just as impressive. It deserves an equally impressive prize!
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If you ask me, the real winners are the lucky people who got to watch and participate in this adorable annual event. Maybe next year I’ll be watching live, too!
This story was originally published by PetHelpful on Oct 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.