Costume Parade Raises $1,480 for Dog Rescue
The 22nd JP Canine Costume Parade drew a record 120 dogs to Jamaica Plain on October 31, 2026.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Dogs
The 22nd annual JP Canine Costume Parade was held in Jamaica Plain on Saturday, October 31, 2026, with a record 120 dogs taking part under perfect weather. The event raised $1,480 for Shultz's Guest House, a dog rescue based in Dedham, Massachusetts.
Why it matters
The parade's record turnout and fundraising total show continued community support for local animal rescue during the Halloween season. For Boston-area dog owners, it offers a visible example of how neighborhood events can direct funds to rescue organizations.
The 120 dogs who took part set a participation record for the event's 22nd annual running. Funds were raised through community donations and entry fees, but the exact breakdown and year-over-year comparison were not reported.
The players
Ben Weber
Ben Weber is the District 6 City Councilor for Boston, who served as a judge at the parade.
Shultz's Guest House
Shultz's Guest House is a dog rescue organization based in Dedham, Massachusetts, and the beneficiary of the parade's fundraising.
The details
Dogs walked down a red carpet past a panel of judges that included District 6 City Councilor Ben Weber, Cathy McCarthy of TCB - The Cooperative Bank, and Dan Bernblum, owner of The Mindful Mutt. Brad Brown, owner of Blue Frog Bakery, served as master of ceremonies. First place went to a costume inspired by "The Odyssey," and second place to one referencing "The Exorcist."
Timeline
Saturday, October 31, 2026: 22nd JP Canine Costume Parade held in Jamaica Plain
Season Trajectory
The 2026 edition extends a 22-year Jamaica Plain tradition and sets a new participation record of 120 dogs. The parade's continued growth suggests sustained local engagement with Halloween-season charity events in the Boston area.
Boston-area dog owners who want to participate in future events can watch for the parade's annual scheduling each fall. The event's entry-fee and donation model shows how community participation directly funds rescue organizations.
The takeaway
Local pet events can be an effective way to channel community giving toward dog rescue groups. Boston residents interested in similar causes can look for seasonal events that combine costumes or competitions with donation drives.
Further reading
For more coverage of local pet news, see Dogs in the Boston area.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Jamaicaplaingazette.
