Gaslamp Pet Parade & Pups in the Pub Party
Saturday, Dec. 13th, 2025 | 11 AM–4 PM | Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego
Get those ears perked and tails wagging! The Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade & Pups in the Pub Party returns to the historic Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego on Saturday, December 13, 2025 (11 AM – 4 PM).
Register your pet now for just $25 and let your fur baby strut their stuff in San Diego’s most festive holiday pet parade—or watch for free from a Gaslamp patio and soak in the holiday cheer.
All fur babies are welcome—dogs, cats, and every pet in between! Dress them in their holiday best and enjoy a full day of fun with marching bands, festive floats, eight holiday costume contest categories, and free holiday photos with Santa, Rudolph, and Frosty!
Pups in the Pub Party at Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
FREE holiday photos with Santa, Rudolph, Frosty, and more — perfect for your holiday cards and social media!
When the parade ends, the holiday fun keeps rolling at the Pups in the Pub Party at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter | 401 K Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Here’s what you and your pup can enjoy:
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FREE Caricatures
- Sips for the whole family
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Treats, games, and activities for your pups
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Holiday music and festive vibes
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Costume contest awards ceremony — see who wins “Best in Show” and other prizes
The after-party is pet-friendly, family-friendly, and full of Gaslamp holiday cheer. Don’t just march—make it a full-day celebration in downtown San Diego.
Register Your Pet & Join the Party – $25
Holiday Cheer with Local San Diego High School Marching Bands
The Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade is all about celebrating festive pets in costume — and this year, they’ll march to the sounds of local San Diego high school marching bands.
As fur babies strut their holiday best, the bands will fill the Gaslamp Quarter with holiday music, marching tunes, and festive cheer, creating a lively backdrop for one of the most family-friendly holiday events in downtown San Diego
Holiday Costume Contest Categories
Join the festive fun with your fur baby at the Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade’s Holiday Costume Contest, hosted at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego. This is one of the most popular holiday pet events in San Diego, featuring eight exciting costume categories where pets can win prizes, awards, and the chance to become next year’s Grand Marshal.
The 2025 Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade will be led by the winners of the 2024 Best in Show. Want your pet to lead the 2026 parade? Enter the contest and let them shine in their holiday best!
Enter your pet in one of eight fun categories for a chance to win prizes, awards, and even lead next year’s parade as Grand Marshal!
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- Best Parade Float Costume – Most creative float-style entry
- Best Christmas Spirit – The most festive holiday look
- Best Matching Costume (Owner + Pet) – Holiday duos in style
- Cutest Pet – The ultimate “aww” factor
- Most Outrageous Costume – Over-the-top creativity and flair
- Best Group Costume (3 or more) – Families, friends, or multiple pets together
- Best in Show – The top prize; winner becomes Grand Marshal of the 2026 Pet Parade
- The Stella Award – In memory of Taylor Kahle, honoring pets who embody joy and love
Winners will be announced live on stage at the Pups in the Pub Party at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter.
To ensure the well-being of all attendees at the Pet Parade, we kindly request your attention to the following health guidelines:
- Health Check:
If your dog is exhibiting any symptoms of illness, we ask that you refrain from attending the event. This precautionary measure is in place to maintain a healthy and safe environment for all.
- Vaccination Requirement:
In line with our commitment to the health of all pets involved, we emphasize the importance of up-to-date vaccination shots for all participating dogs. Please ensure that your pets are vaccinated to promote a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines is greatly appreciated. Thank you for helping us create a safe and enjoyable Pet Parade for all participants.
