Dogs take over Flagstaff Gardens for Halloween

More than 60 costumed canines took centre stage at this year’s Howl-o-ween Party, a community celebration that brought spooky fun (and wagging tails) to Melbourne’s oldest park.

Held on October 31 near the monument at Flagstaff Gardens, the free event saw around 150 people and around 60 of their furry friends gather for an evening of costumes, games, and “trick or treat” fun.

Organised by local dog lover Tara Presnell and her group Howl-o-ween Hounds, the event showcased the creativity and camaraderie of the city’s growing inner-urban dog community.

“We had such an incredible turnout – 40 dogs came in costume, and it was just such a joyful evening,” Ms Presnell said. “It really showed how dogs bring people together in the city, and how much we all love celebrating them.”

Among the standout costumes were a corgi dressed as the boy from Up – a touching tribute to George, an older gentleman who has visited the Flagstaff dogs nightly for six years – a French bulldog-turned-spider, and Barry the Groodle, who came dressed as a bat.

The event drew support from a range of local businesses, including Udom House, Benchwarmer, Airflow Coffee, Roslyn Thai Café, Queen Victoria Pet Shop, Upmarket Pets, Nekopia Pets, and Hachi Grooming.

Organisers also made the event inclusive by creating a Mandarin-language poster to welcome the many international students who walk their dogs in the gardens each evening.

From creative costumes to community connection, the Howl-o-ween Party proved that Melbourne’s dog community is alive, thriving – and not afraid of a little dress-up.

“It was a wonderful reminder of how our pets connect us,” Ms Presnell said.

“We also made sure the event was inclusive, with a Mandarin-language poster to welcome the many international students who visit Flagstaff Gardens each evening to walk their dogs.”

“It wasn’t just about Halloween – it was about celebrating companionship and the local spirit that makes this part of the city so special.” •