Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade Brings Puppy Fun to East Village Oct. 22

EAST VILLAGE, NY — You know if you miss your chance this year to see hundreds of pups in costume in the East Village, you won't forgive yourself for 12 whole months. The Annual Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is back for its 26th year, and it's begging for photographers and participants.

This year's contest, to be hosted by TV personality Giuliana Rancic, is open to anyone who brings a dog in costume. That being said, it's one of the biggest and most crowded halloween dog costume competitions in the world, so get there early if you want a good spot. Prizes will be awarded to the top ten winners during each of two rounds, and an overall "Best in Show" winner is chosen at the end.

All money raised through the event, sponsored by Purina Beggin' and PetSmart, will go to Friends of First Run, the organization that maintains the dog run at Tompkins Square Park all year.

It all goes down "fur real" Saturday, Oct. 22 from noon-3 p.m., and the runway starts at noon. You don't have to pre-register, just bring your pooch in Halloween get-up (or not, if that isn't really his thing, no judgment).

We don't know what this year's costumes will bring, but if they're anything like last year, get ready for some pretty impressive pups:

Photo credit: Courtesy of Tompkins Square Park Dog Run