Halloween is for the dogs — and we mean that in the best way. Grab your pups (and their leashes) for these Shiloh-centric costume events.
Saturday, Oct. 18: Spooky Pooch Parade at Chicago Botanic Garden
Take advantage of this rare chance to have your pooch walk Chicago Botanic Garden’s gorgeous grounds — and be adored by spectators along the parade route. No worries if your pup is getting on in years; there’s a special award for senior dogs, as well as for the young whippersnappers. Feeling fancy? Try for the Best Horticultural Costume award.
When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe (847-835-5440)
Cost: Dogs $19 (online before Oct. 18), $25 day of event; people free. $25 for on-site parking
Saturday, Oct. 25: Boo-Palooza at Wicker Park
Showcasing over 60 Chicagoland organizations and businesses, this event has something for every member of the family — pets included (yes, cats too!). With more pumpkin patches, midway games and live entertainment than you can shake a tail at, your dog will definitely have her day, especially with the dedicated pet area with games and photo ops. Don’t forget a prize-worthy costume for Rover (or your superbly tolerant Mr. Mittens).
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave. (312-742-7553)
Cost: Free to attend
Sunday, Oct. 26: Tails in the City Halloween Pet Parade
With proceeds benefiting PAWS Chicago, this pet party is the one your shaggy and whiskered kiddos would choose. Meet up at Tails in the City to receive your goodie bag, then parade over to the Near North Side’s Washington Square Park (and sit and stay) for the agility course, costume contest and munchies. Try your hand at a fun duo get-up, or wow the judges with scary (hopefully fake) fangs. Pup a bit of a princess? There’s a “Most Glamorous” category, too. Arrive early to register — this popular event gets crowded!
When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Tails in the City, 1 E. Delaware Place (312-649-0347)
Cost: $15
Sunday, Oct. 26: Howl’oween Dog Parade and Costume Contest
Dogs and parks go together like kibble and bits. Dress Fido in his creative Halloween best to vie for a prize at Carol Stream’s Bark Park. Even if he doesn’t win, he’ll receive a treat bag for putting his best paw forward. Last year’s big winner — one small but mighty pup named Harry Paw-ter — has since won several contests and even appeared on the morning news. Casual contestants, you’re on notice.
When: 1-2 p.m.
Where: Bark Park, 280 Kuhn Road, Carol Stream (630-784-6100)
Cost: $3
Sunday, Oct. 26: Howl-A-Ween at Central Bark Gurnee Doggy Day Care
Benefiting WAGS (Waukegan Animals Getting Saved), this puppy playdate boasts a costume contest with prizes, doggone delicious treats — including special ones for dogs who aren’t shy about showing off their best tricks — and portrait sessions featuring easily the most photogenic member of the household.
When: 1-4 p.m.
Where: Central Bark Gurnee, 3880 Grove Ave., Gurnee (847-672-6188)
Cost: $10 suggested donation, $5 for optional portraits
Tuesday, Oct. 28: Bark Bark Club Halloween costume contest
The Edgewater pet-support business Bark Bark Club throws this popular contest for two- and four-legged philanthropists, turning registration fees into scholarships and aid for local families via Care For Real. Donations of sealed pet food (optional but extremely welcome) go directly into the charity’s Pet Food Pantry. All that altruism deserves a reward, so your costumed canine could win prizes from great neighborhood businesses. With five different categories, including scariest, funniest and best homemade, you’ve plenty of chances to win.
When: Registration begins at 6 p.m., event goes until 8:30 p.m.
Where: Berger Park, 6205 N. Sheridan Road (773-761-0376)
Cost: $10 to register
Looking for more of the latest on parenting-related topics and trends? Like us on Facebook or subscribe to our free weekly newsletter.
