Dog Halloween Costume Contest Returns to Washington Square Park on Saturday, October 17

Show off your dog’s costume at a morning of Halloween fun at this fan favorite event, hosted by the Washington Square Park Conservancy.

The Washington Square Park Conservancy announced today that its annual Dog Halloween Costume Contest in Washington Square Park will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026. Free for both participants and spectators, the contest will take place from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm in Washington Square Park’s Garibaldi Plaza.

No pre-registration is required to participate; costumed pups are encouraged to ‘show up and strut.’ The line to participate in the contest will open at 9:30 am, and participants are encouraged to arrive before 10:00 am. Contestants must be in line by 10:30 am to participate.

The Washington Square Park Conservancy’s Dog Halloween is a favorite of humans and dogs alike. Last year’s contest’s winners included showstopping costumes like Guns N’ Roses, Bob Ross, a set of two mops, sushi, and Taylor Swift’s engagement ring.

“Dog Halloween captures the spirit of why so many people and dogs love Washington Square Park,” said Kaitlyn Yates, Programs Director at the Washington Square Park Conservancy. “Like the park itself, the contest is welcoming, creative, and joyous. Each year, I’m excited to see the imaginative costumes our dog community comes up with!”

Emceed by Must Love Dogs and Comedy, the event is sure to see some of the most creative costumes in New York City, from topical pop culture references to classic Halloween looks.

“My favorite part of Washington Square Park Dog Halloween is seeing how creative people and pups get with their costumes! They go all out! I can always count on seeing something I haven't seen before,” said Jolie Dudley, Must Love Dogs and Comedy. “I also love seeing how excited the crowd gets. I'll never forget the year a small pup was dressed up as a shrimp, and when their human held them up, the crowd all chanted, shrimp! shrimp! shrimp! shrimp!”

Judged by a panel of community members and dog lovers, the contest’s 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will be announced at the end of the event. All winners must be present at the park to claim their prizes.

As a staple for Greenwich Village’s canine community, Washington Square Park offers a place for dogs and their people to gather in two well-loved dog runs. The Washington Square Park Conservancy, in partnership with NYC Parks and community volunteers, works to maintain the runs and provide supplies to keep it safe and fun for all.

About the Washington Square Park Conservancy

The Washington Square Park Conservancy, in partnership with NYC Parks, enhances and preserves a vibrant community green space in the heart of New York City for all who are drawn to its iconic grounds.

We envision a thriving, well-cared for park that reflects its enduring history while serving as a modern cultural crossroads and gathering space for a diverse community.

The Washington Square Park Conservancy was founded by local community members in 2012 to fill a critical need in the ongoing operational support of its namesake park that hosts more than 12 million annual visitors within 9.75 acres of lawns, gardens, and public grounds.