A Halloween tradition with a purpose
About 500 dogs and their families joined the 36th Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade on October 17, making their way from East 13th Street and Avenue B to Tompkins Square Park. Spectators lined the route despite the chilly weather, cheering on costumes ranging from pop-culture characters to imaginative themed outfits.
The event, organized by the nonprofit New York Dog Parade, also spotlighted adoption: 250 shelter dogs attended in search of homes. In the costume contest, a Shih Tzu dressed as New York Knicks captain Jalen Brunson won first place.
By combining creativity with an adoption drive, the parade shows how community traditions can help connect more animals with potential families.
