Doggie Costume Contest, Parade At Branch Brook Park: 2025 Halloween Events

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Get ready to “Strutt Your Mutt” in Essex County.

The county is bringing back its annual Halloween pet costume contest and parade for 2025. Participation is free. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places in a variety of categories. For more information, call 973-268-3500.

“The Essex County Dog Parks have become popular places for dog owners to bring their faithful companions,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. said.

“In turn, the canine costume parades are growing into a favorite Halloween celebration for everyone to enjoy,” DiVincenzo added.

This year, three parades have been scheduled:

BRANCH BROOK PARK

• Saturday, Oct. 19 (rain date: Oct. 20)
• Registration: 9:30 a.m. / Parade: 10 a.m.
• Branch Brook Dog Park, Heller Parkway in Newark

BROOKDALE PARK

• Saturday, Oct. 25 (rain date: Oct. 26)
• Registration: 9 a.m. / Parade: 9:30 a.m.
• Brookdale Dog Park, Grove Street in Montclair

GROVER CLEVELAND PARK

• Saturday, Oct. 25 (rain date: Oct. 26
• Registration: 1 p.m. / Parade: 1:30 p.m.
• Grover Cleveland Park, Brookside Avenue and Runnymede Road in Caldwell/Essex Fells

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