Mark your calendars, pet lovers, owners, and enthusiasts! The most adorable and festive event of the holiday season, the Gaslamp Pet Parade & Pups in the Pub Party, is returning to Downtown San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter. On Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 11 AM to 4 PM, dogs, cats, and “every fur baby in between” will wear with pride a full-on holiday flair.
Gaslamp Pet Parade & Pups
This is more than just a walk in the park…it’s a full-day celebration! It all kicks of at 11 AM with the Pre-Party at Nason’s inside the Pendry San Diego. Here, you can grab a Santa Paws Photo Opp and let your pup enjoy a complimentary puppuccino. Then, it’s time to hit the streets!
The parade itself is a spectacular sight. Pets dressed for the holidays make their way past festive floats as high school bands keep the music going. This is a beloved San Diego holiday tradition, that brings out the best in the community – and their very adorable furry companions.
But let’s talk about the real highlight: the famous holiday costume contest. Pets will compete for glory in eight hilarious and heartwarming categories, from “Best Parade Float Costume” to the “Cutest Pet.” The ultimate prize? The “Best in Show” winner earns the prestigious title of Grand Marshal for the following year’s parade. I mean, is there a greater pride?
Pups in the Pub
Once the parade wraps up, the celebration moves to the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter for the Pups in the Pub Party from 2 PM to 4 PM. Snap a few (free) holiday photos with Santa, Rudolph, and Frosty, get free caricatures, enjoy seasonal sips for the humans, and treats for the pups. It all culminates with the highly anticipated awards ceremony.
Sounds like fun (and we can’t imagine it doesn’t)? Register your superstar here! Entry is just $30, which gets your pet into both the parade and the after-party fun. No pet, but you still wanna be part of this? You can simply snag a spot on a Gaslamp patio and enjoy the festivities for free.
Get those holiday outfits ready – this is one parade you don’t want to miss!