Houston Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade & Costume Contest 2025: All You Need to Know
The Houston Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade & Costume Contest is a festive, pet-friendly Halloween event where pups and owners both dress up.
This year, it’s happening on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at Levy Park, Houston.
Expect fun, laughter, wagging tails, and a parade around the park.
Event Overview
| Date & Time | Location | Duration | Entry Fee | Main Attractions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 26, 2025, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Levy Park, 3801 Eastside St, Houston, TX 77098 | 2 hours | Free | Dog parade, costume contest, pup runway, prizes, public participation | Check-in or registration required for contest slots |
This event is a parade + contest format: first the dog procession, then judged costume show.
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Houston Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade 2025 Exact Date, Time & Location Details
- Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM, Sunday, October 26, 2025
- Venue: Levy Park, 3801 Eastside St, Houston, TX 77098
- Contest check-in often begins earlier; confirm via the event’s page.
- The parade route is within the park grounds; best viewing is along the internal paths.
- Afterparty or pup meetups may occur around the main lawn or pavilion.
History & Purpose
This is the 8th annual Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade and Costume Contest in Houston.
Levy Park (via Levy Park Conservancy) hosts it, in collaboration with sponsor H-E-B.
Over years, it has grown in participation, costume creativity, and community spirit.
It supports pet lovers, families, and gives local visibility to pets’ fun side.
How to Participate In Houston Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade & Costume Contest 2025
- Pre-registration is required for the costume contest (spaces limited).
- Participation is free no entry fee.
- All dog owners and pets (friendly, leashed) may join the parade portion.
- Contest categories typically include best costume, funniest, best duo (owner + dog), etc.
- Contestants must arrive early (check-in time) to secure a spot.
- No age limits stated families, kids, adults all welcome to enter or watch.
Viewing Tips & Best Spots
- Arrive by 3:30 PM to catch check-in and early parade flow.
- Stand along wide pathways in the park for unobstructed views.
- Near the main lawn / pavilion offers good vantage for the contest runway.
- Avoid shaded corners — costumes show best with good light.
- Accessibility: paths in Levy Park are walkable and generally stroller / wheelchair friendly.
Costumes & Themes
- There is no fixed official theme — creativity is encouraged.
- Dog owners often choose superhero, horror / monster, pop culture, or animal mash-ups.
- Matching costumes (owner + dog) tend to wow judges.
- Light-up collars, safe masks, and comfortable outfits score high on both style and safety.
- In past years, winners often wore bright, clever, or humorous designs.
Entertainment & Highlights
- The dog parade kicks off the event — dogs march around the park.
- The costume contest features a runway walk and judging.
- Prizes for top costumes (often pet supplies, gift certificates).
- A DJ or music likely plays background tunes during the contest.
- Community atmosphere: photo ops, pet fans, local families gathering.
Travel & Accommodation
- Houston is the nearest major city; Levy Park is within city limits.
- Nearest ZIP: 77098 (Park address)
- Parking is available at park lots and nearby streets (arrive early).
- Some street parking or adjacent lots may fill quickly.
- Staying in neighborhoods near Eastside / Midtown / Montrose gives quick access.
- Use rideshare or transit to avoid looking for parking on event day.
Food & Local Vibes
- Levy Park is near local cafés and restaurants — treat your pup to a walk and snack afterward.
- Nearby eateries may offer Halloween specials or themed menus.
- Bring bottled water and small snacks for your dog (if allowed).
- After the event, explore nearby Houston neighborhoods for dinner or dessert runs.
Safety & Rules
- Expect bag checks or light security at entrances.
- Prohibited items: sharp props, large items, drones, etc.
- Keep dogs on leash and well behaved.
- Avoid costumes that hamper breathing or vision.
- Keep children close in crowded areas.
- Do not block paths or contest areas.
Photography & Social Media
- Best photos: during parade start, runway walk, winners crowned.
- Use natural light before dusk, then use camera flash gently in darker areas.
- Tag posts with #HowloweenHouston, #HowlOWeenDogParade, or event’s official tag.
- Check event’s policy on tripods or professional cameras.
- Capture candid moments: dog reactions, owner-dog pairs, audience smiles.
Conclusion
If you love dogs, costumes, and Halloween, Houston Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade & Costume Contest is a must-see. It’s free, lively, and full of heart.
To make the most: pre-register, arrive early, and dress your pup for fun and comfort.
Bring your camera, your enthusiasm, and maybe a matching outfit with your dog.
Whether you walk, watch, or join, you’ll leave with smiles, great pics, and festive memory.
FAQs
Yes. Parade and contest participation are free of charge.
Yes, for the costume contest. Parade portion may allow walk-ups if space.
Yes as long as they’re safe, leashed, and comfortable.
By 3:30 PM or earlier to handle check-in and setup.
👻 Halloween Mega Sale is Live!
No. All ages welcome.
October 26 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
