15th Annual Gaslamp Pet Parade & Pups in the Pub Party

Tis the season for jingling and barking all the way with San Diego’s favorite feel-good parade, the Gaslamp Quarter Holiday Pet Parade and Pups in the Pub Party! Returning Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, this annual local favorite tradition highlights dogs, cats, and other pets as the Gaslamp “decks the paws” for a howl-y jolly good time.

Pets are the stars of the show at this parade! Attendees and their companions are encouraged to dress up in costume and compete for prizes and awards. Attendees are sure to see Santa Paws, plenty of holiday pet costumes, and unique floats with intricate detailing and matching ensembles. From seasonal costumes to the Star War’s cast in fur-form, each year is a delight as contestants bring their A-game and smiling faces to the Gaslamp Quarter.

The day kicks off at 10 a.m. in the MLK Promenade Park for the vendor expo, a lively marketplace filled with a wide array of animal shelters & pet vendors offering everything from gourmet pet treats, stylish accessories, and fabulous outfits to training services and wellness tips. And what’s a holiday celebration without fantastic photo "pup-portunities" and games?

At the registration table participants can enter their pet into the judging contest where the panel of judges will announce winners for categories like "Best Christmas Spirit," "Best Matching Costumes," and the prestigious "Best in Show."

At 1 p.m., the parade sets off under the iconic Gaslamp Quarter Archway, weaving its way through the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter with energetic live music and onlookers.

After the parade, guests are invited to stroll to the second annual Pups in the Pub Party from 2 p.m. through 4 p.m. at the Hilton Gaslamp Quarter Hotel. Attendees can enjoy craft beer, complimentary goody bags, live music, boutique shopping, games for pups & people, photo ops, and more!

Furry, scaly, and feathered family members alike are welcome to jingle all the way through the Gaslamp Quarter in their best festive costumes to ring in the holiday season.

Registration is just $25 per pet and you receive the following:

• Entrance to the expo

• A variety of photo ops

• Parade registration

• Goodie bag

• Entrance to Pups in the Pub after party

• Opportunity to win “paw-mazing” awards

Participants can register in advance to ensure their spot in the parade is reserved as parade slots are limited.

About the Gaslamp Quarter Association: The Gaslamp Quarter Association® (GQA) is a non-profit 501(c)6 merchants association, representing more than 400 businesses located within the boundaries of the Gaslamp Quarter. The GQA is the second oldest Business Improvement District in the City of San Diego, established in1982. The mission of the GQA is to promote and protect the historic Gaslamp Quarter as San Diego’s premier Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment District, using advocacy, community relations, and promotional programs to present an exciting, sophisticated, world-class destination for the residents of, and visitors to San Diego, for the prosperity of the Association’s membership. For more information on the Gaslamp Quarter, visit www.gaslamp.org.

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