The streets of New York were bustling with wagging tails and excited barks as the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade took over the city this past Saturday. The event, a beloved tradition spanning over three decades, began with just a group of friends.
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Despite the parade’s long-standing history, it almost didn’t happen this year. Organizers faced challenges due to the unexpected surge in turnout. Previous years saw consistent growth, but this year, the parade almost doubled its estimated attendees. Roughly 15,000 people and 600 canines graced the event, presenting logistical challenges that the parade had not encountered before. The massive turnout necessitated street closures and permits costing thousands.
However, Mayor Eric Adams, recognizing the importance of the parade, stepped in, coordinating with various state agencies. This collaboration made it possible to provide the organizers with the permits they needed at more feasible prices.
The parade also found a knight in shining armor in Get Joy, a Connecticut-based dog food company. After hearing the parade might not happen, the company’s founder and CEO, Tom Arrix, commented, “We saw a ton of social posts and comments about how it was canceled, and we really saw how meaningful it was to people. When we saw that, we quickly raised our hand and said, ‘How can we help?'” Thanks to Get Joy’s sponsorship, all the parade’s expenses were covered.
Joseph Borduin, a loyal volunteer who has been an integral part of the parade’s organization for four years, was overjoyed. “It’s a dream come true,” Borduin said, “It’s something I’ve always thought about in the back of my head that we could possibly do in 10 years.”
The highlight of the parade was, of course, the pets themselves. Homemade floats transported dressed-up dogs through the city streets, captivating onlookers and participants alike. The contest’s winner was Pookah, a Pomeranian who charmed the crowd as “Winnie the Pookah.” Complete with a red sweatshirt and a fake pot of honey, Pookah stole the show. The proud owners, Sam Carpenter, and Michelle Leone, who came dressed as Tigger and Piglet, won free passes to doggy daycare. The duo shared that it was their first time attending the parade and they had spent an entire month preparing their Pooh-themed costumes.
The parade once again proved that the love for pets and community can bring a city together, even in the face of challenges. New York awaits eagerly for next year’s edition, which promises to be even bigger and better.
