…and Strut Your Mutt is back for 2021

Saturday, October 23, Registration 9 AM, Parade 9:30

strutyourmuttdogparkparade
This is a sign of the fun to come on October 23, 2021

Time for some Halloween costume drama at Brookdale park. While not actually “in” the dog park, Strutt Your Mutt, the annual dog and owner costume parade, takes place a few steps away, down the hill and a little to the right.

This is the kind of event where spectators have as much if not more fun than the participants. Wrangling dogs who are wearing uncomfortable accessories can be challenging, as is keeping your own get-up from falling off or blocking your vision. But participant and spectators are ensured an eyeful and prizes are awarded for a number of different categories.

According to the sign (above), the event is sponsored by ARJ Civic, which we believe is a new wrinkle. According to the website,

The Anibal Ramos Jr. Civic Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Newark residents by offering scholarships to students, hosting free community events and donating food and other goods to needy families. All contributions to ARJ Civic are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. 

Of course, a picture of parks czar Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo also graces the signage. Joe’s let his hair go natural lately, and we approve.

Strut Your Mutt 2019

While not officially part of the dog park per se, the Strut your Mutt event is a fun event for dogs and their hypercreative owners. There’s a parade and prizes and Joe Divincenzo! Get there early on October 26 (9:00 AM, just down the hill — east? from the dog park) to register and lineup for the judging.
Here are some pictures from past years of dogs and volunteers from the Bloomfield Animal Shelter.

Mary and Kaylee

Angela and Joe as Abe Lincoln x2!