CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — October 2025 — One of the Circleville Pumpkin Show’s most beloved traditions is celebrating a major milestone this year: the 100th anniversary of the Pet Parade.
What began in 1925 as a small procession of children and their dogs has grown into a community favorite that now features cats, exotic animals, decorated bicycles, miniature floats, and more.
The very first Pet Parade offered quirky categories such as “Typical Boy and His Dog,” “Greatest Number of Pets by One Person,” and “Unusual or Freak Pets.” Winners received cash prizes ranging from fifty cents to five dollars, while every child who participated went home with a box of candy.
Over the past century, the event has become a multigenerational tradition, celebrating creativity, family fun, and the special bond between people and their pets.
To mark the centennial, organizers are releasing a limited-edition souvenir pin featuring two rescue animals—Bentley and Chester—representing the Pickaway County Dog Shelter and the Circle Area Humane Society. For the first time, apparel will also be available for pre-order beginning Tuesday, August 26 at the Pickaway County Visitors Bureau and Circleville Apothecary.
This year’s parade will be held on Friday, October 17 at 3:30 p.m. Participants can register on East Main Street between 2:15 and 3:15 p.m., with judging to follow at South Pickaway and East Franklin streets.
Categories for 2025 include:
- Typical Boy and His Pet
- Typical Girl and Her Pet
- Unusual Pets (Boys and Girls)
- Best Dressed Dog
- Best Dressed Cat
- Best Decorated Bicycle
- Best Miniature Float (pet not required)
Prizes will be awarded to the top five entries in each category, with both trophies and cash awards available. Participants must live in Pickaway County or the Circleville Trading Area. Horses and ponies are not permitted.
The event is sponsored by the Circleville Kiwanis, with support from Circleville Pumpkin Show Inc., the Pickaway County Dog Shelter, the Circle Area Humane Society, and numerous community volunteers.
For more information, visit www.pumpkinshow.com or call 740-474-7000.
