Great PUPkin Contest Raises Funds for Fort Greene Park
Brooklyn dog owners gathered for a costume contest that raised over $7,000 for local park maintenance and programs.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Dogs
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More than 100 dogs competed in Brooklyn for the 28th annual Great PUPkin costume contest. The event drew approximately 5,000 spectators to Fort Greene Park to raise funds for local maintenance and community programs.
Why it matters
This long-standing neighborhood tradition directly benefits local infrastructure and dog advocacy through community fundraising. The contest supports the park's mission to promote space for off-leash exercise and responsible pet ownership.
The 28th annual event featured over 100 dog participants and reached a fundraising total of more than $7,000. These funds support the ongoing mission of the Fort Greene Park Users and Pets Society.
The players
Fort Greene Park Users and Pets Society
An advocacy group dedicated to supporting park maintenance and promoting off-leash dog exercise in Brooklyn.
The details
A panel of four judges evaluated the costumes based on creativity and execution to determine the top three finishers. The Pawsteige: Transported Dog took home the first-place prize, followed by Where's Woof in second and The Dogyssey in third. The event highlights local dedication to maintaining public park space while fostering community engagement through pet-centered activities.
Timeline
The 28th Great PUPkin dog costume contest occurred on October 24, 2026.
The Home Front
The Great PUPkin contest represents a 28-year precedent of community-led stewardship for neighborhood public spaces. Such events highlight the role of local advocacy groups in securing non-municipal funding for urban park improvements.
Pet owners looking to get involved in future park improvements should monitor the organization's event calendar for upcoming volunteer opportunities. Residents can also check the local parks department website to learn about off-leash hours and park maintenance schedules in their neighborhood.
The takeaway
Community-driven pet events provide a reliable model for raising funds for essential local park maintenance. Keep an eye on local park boards to see how your neighborhood's pet community can contribute to future improvement projects.
Further reading
Find more local pet events and resources in our Dogs section.
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