A Guide to the Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade

Calling all animal lovers: What could possibly be cuter than a pet parade? A pet parade where all the animals are dressed up in costumes!

This Sunday, the 10th Annual San Diego Union-Tribune Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade presented by Blue Buffalo will showcase all types of furry, feathered and scaled pets in a festive parade and expo that your whole family will enjoy. The event will also feature costume contests, live music and staged animal performances.

Parade

Where: MLK Promenade Park, 401 K Street, San Diego 92101
When: 3 p.m. on December 10, 2017
Cost: $15 or $20 the day of the parade
Parking: Paid lots on 289 Sixth Avenue and 614 Fifth Avenue

Expo

Where: Hilton Gaslamp Park, San Diego
When: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on December 10, 2017
Cost: Free
Parking: Paid lots on 289 Sixth Avenue and 614 Fifth Avenue

After the parade, you won’t want to miss the pet costume contest award ceremony. Costume categories include best ugly holiday sweater, best costumed duo, cutest critter and best all-around creative pet costume. The expo will have more than 25 pet-related products and services displayed at Hilton Gaslamp Park that may serve as good holiday gift ideas for your animal-loving family and friends.

Animal etiquette tips:

• Never pet an animal without asking the adult owner first
• Never approach an animal that appears anxious or scared
• Don’t try to pet an animal that is eating or sleeping (unless the owner says it’s OK)
• Don’t invade the animal’s personal space
• Be cautious, since not all dogs (or other animals) like children
• Stay calm, quiet and make slow, careful movements while petting an animal
• Bring a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer

Getting the family outside to enjoy some fresh air at this event is an excellent opportunity to bond, as well as learn more about a variety animals and how to act around them. For more local events and family-friendly activities, check out Scripps Affiliated Medical Groups’ articles.