Annual Pet Parade takes to the streets October 10

Participants walk their pets during the 2024 Pet Parade. Photo by Tammie Stephens

By Sherry Lucas

Pet owners and their charges, prepare to lap this one right up.

The Pet Parade, 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, on Main Street by Cups in Clinton, is the perfect opportunity for high visibility and maximum social fun for furry (and possibly feathered?) family friends to strut (or possibly slither?) their stuff.

They can do that with just the fur on their legs or feathers on their backs, or key into the upcoming Halloween holiday and don a costume for fun.

“The event is open to all pets,” Main Street Clinton Assistant Director Ashley Hammack said. “However, only costumed critters may be eligible for prizes.”

As expected, “The majority of pets on parade are dogs, but we’ve also had snakes, hamsters, rats, bearded dragons and parrots!”

All animals must be on a leash or have a carrier.

Pet Parade history has been rife with the creativity of pet parents who want the best for their loved ones.

“Costumes are encouraged, and we see lots of owners/families in group costumes with their pets,” Hammack said, recalling the group of kids that dressed as Winnie-the-Pooh characters alongside their dog dressed as Piglet, a couple decked out as Dorothy and the scarecrow from The Wizard of Oz with their dog as the Cowardly Lion, and the kid who came as a little beekeeper with his two bee-decked dogs.

The Pet Parade has been well-received since its start in 2011, and has continued to draw more owners and their pets into the fun.

“It has been fun to see the increase in the number of participating critters and the work put into the pet costumes,” she said.

The event is a highlight of the Fall for Clinton Olde Towne Market, which draws crowds to downtown the same day.

“Everyone loves showing off their pet(s), so it draws a great crowd,” said Hammack. “And while they are already downtown, it’s the perfect time to peruse what the market has to offer and grab food in Olde Towne.”

Awards go to Biggest Pet, Smallest Pet, Best Trick, Best Costume, Best Smile and Owner/Pet Look Alike winners.

The Pet Parade is sponsored by Chick-fil-A. No registration is necessary, and participation is free.