ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Capital Region pups will be able to get in on some howl-oween action next month. Hounds of Halloween will make its annual return in Albany on October 18.
From noon to 4 p.m., registered dogs and their owners can trick-or-treat at dozens of downtown Albany businesses. New this year, a puppy parade will kick off from the Clinton Market Collective at 11 Clinton Avenue at 3 p.m.
A Canine Costume Contest will also run throughout the day. Participating dogs will have their photo taken during a chosen time slot and a panel of judges will select first-, second- and third-place winners. A People’s Choice public vote will also be held on the downtown Albany Business Improvement District Facebook page.
Judges’ choice winners and People’s Choice winners will be announced at the same time. First-place winners in each category will receive a $100 downtown Albany gift card, a mug from the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, complimentary tickets to the 2026 Hounds of Halloween and a chance to be featured in the event’s artwork. Second- and third-place winners will also receive a $50 downtown Albany gift card, complimentary Mohawk Hudson Humane Society mug and complimentary 2026 tickets.
After a paw-sitively spooky afternoon, pups and their owners will be able to unwind at Yappy Hour at participating restaurants and bars. Specials will be offered from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Registration costs $20 per dog in advance online or $25 per dog cash, credit or Venmo day-of at The Olde English Pub & Pantry’s dog-friendly patio. It will include a Hounds of Halloween trick-or-treating map, an exclusive tote bag, giveaways, entry for you and your dog in the Canine Costume Contest and access to the Yappy Hour specials.
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