Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade (36th)

The Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade, an East Village autumn fixture, reached its 36th edition on Saturday, October 17. Costumed dogs and their owners marched along Avenue B in a procession run by the nonprofit New York Dog Parade, which describes the day as a celebration of dog-human friendship.

The parade stepped off at 11am. Registration for marchers was full, and registered participants were emailed an arrival time, with check-in opening as early as 9am. Watching cost nothing. Spectators were advised to claim a spot along Avenue B between 7th and 11th Streets before 11.

Dogs that weren't signed up still had a place to go. The Dog Parade Festival Block, on 6th Street between Avenues B and C, ran from 10am to 4pm with treats, photo opportunities and surprises. It made an easy stop for anyone who wanted to dress up a pet and join the atmosphere without marching.

The organizers also sell an official T-shirt and enamel pins to support the event, and they highlight October as adopt-a-shelter-dog month, with a "Parade Buddy" adoption feature. For Japanese-speaking New Yorkers with dogs, or simply dog lovers, it is one of the neighborhood's friendliest ways to meet people. It is worth keeping in mind for next year's Halloween season.