Now in its 36th year, what began in Manhattan’s first dog run has grown into what many celebrate as the world’s largest dog parade. The event includes a dog parade, a high stakes costume contest, along with a festival block for participants and spectators to enjoy.

The 2026 Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is Saturday, October 17th. The parade steps off at 11:00 AM.

The parade takes place in Manhattan’s East Village. The parade will travel south along Avenue B, from East 13th Street to East 7th Street at Tompkins Square Park.

Our Festival Block will be located on East 6th Street between Avenues B and C and will be open to the public from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

The parade steps off at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 17th.

Spectators are encouraged to find a viewing spot along Avenue B beginning around 10:00–10:30 AM. The Festival Block opens at 10:00 AM.

Registration to march in the 2026 Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is now full. We’re thrilled by the incredible response from our dog-loving community!

If you weren’t able to snag a marching spot this year, we’d still love to see you there. Spectators are welcome and no registration is required to watch the parade or visit the Festival Block.

If you are marching in the parade, yes—all dogs and their humans must be registered in advance. Registration for the 2026 parade is now full.

No registration is needed to attend as a spectator. Come cheer on the costumed pups along Avenue B and join us at the Festival Block!

Absolutely! No dog—and no registration—is required to watch. Spectators can line Avenue B to cheer on the costumed pups, then visit our Festival Block on East 6th Street between Avenues B and C.

We recommend finding your parade viewing spot around 10:00–10:30 AM ahead of the 11:00 AM step-off.

Okay, never underestimate the power of YOUR dog in an adorable costume to make people really happy! But always prioritize your dog’s comfort first. Dogs make people happy all on their own, too. You know your dog best! If your dog doesn’t oblige or seems uncomfortable in a costume, we do not recommend making them wear one!

If you do dress up your dog, please choose a costume that is comfortable and non-restrictive and does not interfere with their sight, hearing, movement, or ears.

Costumes and props should be safe, manageable, and easy to move with along the parade route. Carts, strollers, baby carriages, and small motorized costume elements are welcome, but large vehicle-sized builds such as golf carts are not permitted. Please make sure your costume does not block the parade route or create a safety concern for other dogs or people.

New York Dog Parade is the nonprofit behind the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade. We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and our mission is to celebrate dog and human friendship. Through creative canine-themed events, we build community and connection, while amplifying causes that support dog and human well-being.

Don’t worry—you can still be part of the fun! Registration to march in this year’s parade is full, but everyone is welcome to attend as a spectator.

Come cheer on the parade along Avenue B or join us at the Festival Block on East 6th Street between Avenues B and C from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. No spectator registration is required.

Please fill out this form and a member of our volunteer team will get back to you.

Email Jeremy at jcole@thatcherandco.com