Dogs (And Their People)
Canine culture has a home in Greenwich Village at Washington Square Park. During the park’s open hours, all leashed dogs and their owners are welcome anywhere in the park, except fenced garden beds. Washington Square Park also is home to two well-loved dog runs for the community’s furriest visitors to socialize off-leash.
Location & Hours
The Washington Square Park Dog Run is located inside of the park behind the Park House between Thompson Street and Sullivan Street. Open to dogs of all sizes from 6 AM to 12 AM daily, the run can be accessed from entrances both inside the park and from the perimeter sidewalk along Washington Square Park South.
The Robin Kovary Run for Small Dogs is located inside of the park between Thompson Street and LaGuardia Place. Open to dogs 25 pounds and under from 6 AM to 12 AM daily, the run can be accessed by walking along the southern pathway inside the park between Thompson Street and LaGuardia Place.
Dog Halloween Costume Contest 2026
The winners of Dog Halloween 2025 in Washington Square Park.
The Washington Square Park Conservancy's annual Dog Halloween Costume Contest returns to Washington Square Park! Free for both participants and spectators, Dog Halloween is a favorite of humans and dogs alike.
No pre-registration is required to participate; costumed pups are encouraged to "show up and strut." The line to participate in the contest will open at 9:30 am, and participants are encouraged to arrive before 10:00 am. Contestants must be in line by 10:30 am to participate.
Emceed by Must Love Dogs and Comedy, the event is sure to see some of the most creative costumes in New York City, from topical pop culture references to classic Halloween looks. Last year's winners included showstopping costumes like Guns N' Roses, Bob Ross, a set of two mops, sushi, and Taylor Swift's engagement ring.
Judged by a panel of community members and dog lovers, the contest's 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will be announced at the end of the event. All winners must be present at the park to claim their prizes.
Stewardship & Support
The dog runs rely on community volunteers for upkeep and maintenance. Interested in volunteering? Email volunteer@washingtonsqpark.org to learn more.
Be sure to stay in the know on everything going on at the park, dog runs included, by signing up for the Washington Square Park Conservancy newsletter.
The Washington Square Park Conservancy relies on donations to maintain the runs, provide supplies, coordinate volunteer efforts, and host the annual Dog Halloween event each October. Support the dog runs with a donation or a Furry Friend membership today!