The Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is making its grand return this Sunday in the East Village.
This year marks the event’s 35th anniversary — and it comes with some new tricks.
For the first time, a pack of Grand Marshals will lead the parade: five adoptable dogs from local rescue organizations, including PupStarz, Social Tees and the ASPCA.
“It’s going to be very cute. And we've got some other surprises in store to kick off the parade,” said Fern Watt, founder of the nonprofit behind the event, New York Dog Parade.
The route will run down Avenue B, from 11th to Seventh streets, from 1 to 4 p.m.
About 1,200 dog owners have registered to march with their costumed pups and a panel of three judges will pick 20 finalists for the costume contest. Only one will take home the grand prize: a supply of dog food from sponsor Stella & Chewy’s and a gift card to Tompkins Square Bagels.
“We didn’t want the dog to be the only one getting a tasty treat, Because we know humans also put in a lot of work into these beautiful costumes," Watt said.
While entries for the competition have already sold out, the event is free to attend and organizers are encouraging spectators to come cheer along the parade route. Dogs just coming to watch can expect treats, too.
