Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at the upcoming Harvest Howl, a pet-friendly event that promises fun for both two-legged and four-legged family members! This community-centered gathering brings together pet lovers and their furry companions for a celebration of fall festivities. If you’re a longtime resident or new to the neighborhood, this occasion offers the perfect chance to connect with fellow pet enthusiasts while enjoying seasonal treats and activities designed with your pets in mind.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 11th, 2025, as Main Plaza transforms into a pet paradise from 11am to 1pm for the much-anticipated Harvest Howl. This fall festival welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes for a morning of “all bark, no fright” fun. Attendees can look forward to delicious treats from local vendors, including Chiki’s Pancakes and Vineyard Fare, ensuring no human goes hungry while their furry friends socialize. The event showcases the community spirit of Short Pump, with Virginia Veterinary Centers Short Pump stepping up as the official sponsor.
The highlight of Harvest Howl will undoubtedly be the pet costume contest, where your four-legged companions can strut their stuff in their most creative, spooky, or adorable attire. From pups dressed as pumpkins to cats cosplaying as creatures of the night, this parade of pets promises to deliver frightful fun for all ages. While you enjoy the festivities, take advantage of the opportunity to meet other pet owners in the community and perhaps even discover local pet services and resources available in the neighborhood. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes this the perfect weekend activity for families looking to celebrate the fall season with their beloved pets.
Contest Information and Prizes
The pet costume contest stands as the centerpiece of the Harvest Howl festivities, scheduled to begin promptly at 12pm. Pet owners are encouraged to register their costumed companions early, allowing time for the judges to admire each participant’s creative ensemble. The competition promises to showcase everything from elaborate homemade costumes to clever character interpretations, all modeled by pets who vary in enthusiasm from reluctant to runway-ready. The crowd-pleasing parade of pets will culminate with the winners’ announcement at 12:30pm, giving spectators plenty of time to appreciate each contestant’s unique style before the judges make their difficult decisions.
The stakes are high for this year’s costume competition, with valuable prizes awaiting the most impressive entrants. The pet that captures first place will earn their owner a substantial $100 Tenant Gift Card, perfect for shopping at any participating merchant in the area. Second-place contestants won’t go home empty-pawed either, with a $50 Tenant Gift Card awaiting the runner-up. Even the third-place winner will be rewarded for their creativity with a $25 Tenant Gift Card. These prizes add a competitive edge to the friendly contest, encouraging participants to put in their best effort when planning their pet’s festive attire. Regardless of whether your furry friend ends up on the winners’ podium, the photo opportunities and memories made will be treasures in themselves.
