Explore Hillwood's twenty-five acres of landscaped gardens and lush natural woodlands with your pup and enjoy the annual costume competition.
Strut your mutt and size up the other canine contestants. Prizes will be awarded in the following categories:
Best Homemade
Most Glamorous
Best Owner & Dog Combination Costume
Cutest
Funniest
Top Dog (best overall)
Winners will receive a Spooky Pooch 2026 winners certificate, guest passes for a return visit to Hillwood, and of course bragging rights, and the envy and admiration of your fellow Spooky Pooch contestants! The Top Dog winner receives a family membership to Hillwood.
Yappy Hour
Stop by Merriweather To Go to pick up a special Spooky Pooch signature cocktail, light snacks, and dog treats.
Event Timeline
4 p.m. | Hillwood opens to dogs and program begins
4:45 p.m. | Deadline to enter costume contest
5:00 p.m. | Costume competition begins
5:50 p.m. | Winners announced*
6 p.m. | Hillwood closes
*Must be present to win
This program takes place rain or shine. In the event of rain, the costume contest will take place in the airy and open shelter of the C.W. Post courtyard tent.