•  
• ENJOY YOUR VISIT
  • Events Calendar
  • Visiting the Garden
  • Directions
  • Interactive Map
  • What's In Bloom
  • For Families
  • Flower Shows
  • Garden Trams
  • Wellness/Lifestyle
    Programs
  • Dining
  • The Garden Shop
• AT THE GARDEN
  • Plant Collections
  • General Info
  • Explore the Garden
  • Garden Blog
  • Group Visits
  • Corporate and
    Special Events
  • Press Room
  • Employment
  • Contact Us
• YOUR GARDEN
  • Gardening Help
  • Plant Information
    Service
  • Illinois'
    Best Plants
• EDUCATION
  • Adult and Degree Programs
  • Lenhardt Library
  • Pre-K to Grade 12 Education
  • After-school and Camp
  • Community Gardening
  • Horticultural Therapy
• CONSERVATION
  • Plant Science and Conservation
  • Science Laboratories
  • Staff
  • Plant Science Center
  • Training & Education
  • Resources
  • Save the Plants. Save the Planet.
• SUPPORT US
  • Membership
  • Give to the Garden
  • President's Circle
  • Board of Directors
  • To Volunteer
  • Annual Report

HallowFest

Spooky Pooch Parade
• 2009 Parade Winners
• Video and Favorites
• SmugMug Gallery

Trains, Tricks & Treats

Reindog Memories
• 2008 Parade Wieners
• 2007 Parade Wieners
• 2006 Parade Wieners
• 2005 Parade Wieners
• 2004 Parade Wieners
• 2003 Parade Wieners

EVENTS Calendar

Spooky Pooch Parade

Saturday, October 30, 2010
1 to 3 p.m.

VIEW/DOWNLOAD 2009 PARADE PHOTOS ONLINE AT SMUGMUG!

VIEW 2009 PARADE WINNERS

MORE CROWD FAVORITES

The Chicago Botanic Garden is pleased to announce the second annual Spooky Pooch Parade. The ever-popular Reindog Parade, typically held in December, has been moved to October as a fall parade of dogs in Halloween costumes. The Spooky Pooch Parade is from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 30, 2010. For two very special hours only, dogs are allowed in the Garden. Cleverly costumed canines march the parade route to celebrate the season. Spectators are invited to line the parade route for a barking good time.

In addition to the parade, activities include the costume contest, judging, and an awards ceremony. Costume categories include "Best Costume Overall"; "Best Dog/Owner Costume"; "Best Puppy in Costume" for dogs ages 1 and under in people years; "Best Senior in Costume" for dogs ages 10 and older in people years; and "Best Horticultural Interpretation."

Check back here a bit closer to the date to read about judges and prizes for Spooky Pooch Parade 2010.

Nonprofits and vendors from a variety of local pet supply shops will share information and sell dog-related products. The parade steps off from the Esplanade, where the activities and costume contest take place. Dogs must be on leash at all times and must leave the Garden by 4 p.m.

SCHEDULE

• Registration and activities open at 1 p.m.;
  judging takes place at 2 p.m.
• The parade begins at 2 p.m. as the dogs
  promenade through the Garden.
• Top Dog prizes will be awarded after the parade
  from 2:30 to 3 p.m. Please — no dogs at the Garden after 4 p.m.

Registration prices are $14 in advance and $19 at the door. Parking is $20 per car; free for Garden members. Parade spectators pay for parking only.

Event space is limited and tickets are subject to availability. Tickets are nonrefundable and may not be exchanged. Prepurchase tickets to ensure your dog's space at this year's event!

Parking fees apply for nonmembers.