Salem is going to the dogs (and cats and lizards and bunnies), and we couldn’t be happier about it! Salem Main Streets is very pleased to produce the fifth annual Howl-o-ween Pet Parade, to be held on Saturday, Oct. 12 at 1 pm on Derby Wharf, Salem Maritime National Historic Site (160 Derby Street).
“This started as a very casual little event, and every year we grow more and more,” says Kylie Sullivan, Executive Director of Salem Main Streets. “Salem is such a pet-friendly city; it seemed like a no-brainer that we needed a community pet parade during Haunted Happenings. It’s such a special way to engage our residents, appeal to our visitors, and celebrate our local business community. We loved our move down to Derby Wharf last year, where we have more room to spread out and the great backdrop of Salem Harbor.”
The event will include an area with information about the National Park Service Bark Ranger Program, local rescues and pet-focused downtown businesses, and most importantly, a parade and costume contest with prizes. Pets of all species are welcome, but should be well-behaved and comfortable at a busy event where there are likely to be many dogs. The parade is rain or shine. Registration begins at 1 pm, with the Parade generally kicking off between 1:30 and 1:45 with a loop around Derby and Central Wharves, and ending with the costume contest.
Salem Main Streets asks all parade participants to register online in advance if possible, with a small donation of $5. All proceeds go directly to Salem Main Streets in support of special community programs all year round. Online registration is now closed, but you can still register pets onsite the day of the parade.
The 2019 Howl-o-ween Pet Parade is supported by primary sponsor New England Dog Biscuit Company, Witch Pix, Scarlet Letter Press, and Noble Beasts Pet Care.
