TellingPointy Editorial Board — Burlington’s annual Howl’ween dog costume contest crowned winners across five categories, with participants showcasing Halloween-themed outfits for the event held on October 25, 2025, at Church Street Marketplace. The contest featured categories including Silliest Costume, Most Original Costume, Best Pup & Owner Duo, Best Overall Costume, and Best in Show, as reported by local sources. Erik and Tricia Gray’s four chihuahuas, dressed as the “Pumpkin Patch,” won the Silliest Costume category, while Noragh Devlin’s dog, Desmond, earned attention for his “Desmond the Destroyer” outfit, crafted from scattered toy parts.
The event, hosted by the Church Street Marketplace and sponsored by Northfield Savings Bank, required registration for participants and drew spectators to the 3rd Block of Church Street. Winners were determined by crowd reactions, with organizers noting that “how loud the cheers were in each category” played a role in selecting victors. Dogs and their owners paraded down the street starting at 12:00 PM after registration opened at 11:15 AM.
Five Categories Highlight Creative Entries
The contest included five distinct categories, with each having multiple winners. These included Silliest Costume, Most Original Costume, Best Pup & Owner Duo, Best Overall Costume, and Best in Show. The Silliest Costume category, won by the Gray family’s chihuahuas, emphasized humor and group coordination, while the Most Original Costume category celebrated unique, imaginative designs. The Best Pup & Owner Duo recognized partnerships between pets and their handlers, and Best in Show honored the overall top entry.
Event Details Emphasize Community Participation
Free registration was required for participants, with sign-ups taking place at the Church Street tent between 11:15 AM and 11:55 AM. Spectators attended without registration, and the event was held outdoors, with organizers advising attendees to prepare for weather conditions. The contest, supported by Dorset Street Animal Hospital and Martin’s Coins & Jewelry, served as a community gathering to celebrate Halloween creativity. Specific participant stories were highlighted, including Devlin’s “Desmond the Destroyer” costume.
