Happy Howl-o-ween! On Saturday, October 19, from 11am to 2pm, ghostly Great Danes, creepy Collies, terrifying Terriers, and gnarly Nippers will return to roam the streets of downtown Albany for the BID’s third annual puppy trick-or-treating event: Hounds of Halloween!

Dress up your doggo for the Costumed Canine Contest and stop by local businesses for unique Halloween treats for pups and people. The winner of the costume contest will be determined by public vote via a Facebook photo album. The top three best-dressed pets will receive special prizes (and bragging rights)!

Trick-or-treating begins and ends at The Olde English Pub & Pantry‘s dog-friendly garden patio (683 Broadway). Free parking is available on the street and at the Quackenbush Garage (25 Orange Street).

A $5.00 suggested donation to benefit the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society will get you your limited edition Hounds of Halloween trick-or-treating bag (while supplies last) and a guide to all the stops! Pre-register via Eventbrite by October 18 to guarantee that you’ll receive a bag.

Participating pups and their people will don their spookiest garb for the Costumed Canine Contest and stop by over 20 participating businesses throughout downtown Albany for unique Halloween treats.

A map of trick-or-treat stops will be provided. Attendees may register in advance via Eventbrite by noon on Friday, October 18, or onsite at the event. Advance online registration will guarantee a limited edition Hounds of Halloween trick-or-treat bag. Bags will be available to day-of registrants while supplies last on a first-come, first-served basis.

Participating businesses include:

Many businesses feature dog-friendly outdoor patios and will be open for breakfast, brunch and lunch.