Hundreds of dogs and their owners dressed in fun Halloween costumes gathered in Grand Junction, Colorado, for the fourth annual Howl-O-Ween fundraiser on October 26, 2025. The event, organized by the Roice-Hurst Humane Society and the Grand Junction Sports Commission, featured a 5K run, a one-mile walk, a costume contest, and an after-party to raise funds for animal care programs.
Event Details and Purpose
The Howl-O-Ween took place at Las Colonias Park with check-in starting at 11 a.m. and races kicking off at 1 p.m. Sponsors like St. Mary’s Regional Hospital and Munro Supply helped make the day possible. All proceeds went straight to supporting the pets and programs at the Roice-Hurst Humane Society, which focuses on building strong bonds between people and their animals.
Jenna Kretchman, the communications coordinator for the society, shared her excitement about the gathering. She noted how dressing up with pets and strolling through the park on a crisp fall day perfectly aligns with their goal of fostering those special connections. The event also highlighted dogs up for adoption, giving potential owners a chance to meet them in a lively setting.
Ben Snyder from the Sports Commission emphasized the power of teaming up with the humane society. He explained that such partnerships spotlight important causes and show off the best of the community in Grand Junction. This collaboration has turned the fundraiser into a key part of local Halloween traditions.
Creative Costumes Steal the Show
Participants went all out with imaginative outfits that brought smiles to everyone at the park. From groups inspired by classic cartoons to solo acts that captured the Halloween spirit, the costumes added a playful touch to the runs and walks.
One standout group was the Winterbower family with their three dogs dressed as a hot dog stand. Kasey Winterbower laughed about how her dachshunds fit the wiener theme perfectly, and they even added a cart for the one who prefers not to walk long distances. She praised the creativity on display, saying it was inspiring to see so many unique ideas from fellow dog lovers.
Other highlights included a trio channeling Scooby-Doo characters, a pup as a boxing champ, and pairs like a scuba diver with a shark buddy. Fans of The Wizard of Oz brought their furry friends as Dorothy and Toto, while more dachshunds joined the hot dog fun. These outfits not only entertained but also encouraged families to include their pets in holiday celebrations.
To give a quick overview of some popular costume categories, here is a table summarizing the themes spotted at the event:
| Costume Category | Examples | Number of Entries |
|---|---|---|
| Food-Themed | Hot dogs, burgers | 15 |
| Cartoon Characters | Scooby-Doo, Wizard of Oz | 20 |
| Adventure/Sports | Scuba diver, boxer | 10 |
| Classic Monsters | Sharks, ghosts | 12 |
This variety kept the costume contest lively and helped raise extra awareness for the cause.
Runners Share Their Experiences
The 5K and one-mile options drew runners of all levels, many with their dogs leading the way. Among the top finishers were Joel and Arianna Kincaid along with Taylor Valentine, who all crossed the line with their energetic pups.
Joel Kincaid enjoyed the short distance for his dog, saying it was a great way to get out and run together. He appreciated how the event combined exercise with fun under the sunny skies. Arianna added that her dog Riley started off nervous around the crowd but soon found its rhythm, turning the race into a positive adventure for both.
Taylor Valentine highlighted her dog’s competitive edge, noting how it pushed her to keep a steady pace. She described the run as effortless thanks to the pup’s high energy and enthusiasm. These stories show how the event blends fitness with pet companionship, making it appealing for active families.
For those planning similar outings, consider these tips from participants:
- Start with shorter walks to build your dog’s comfort in crowds.
- Choose lightweight costumes to avoid slowing down during runs.
- Pack water and treats to keep energy levels high.
- Arrive early for packet pickup to avoid last-minute stress.
Growing Impact on the Community
Since starting small in 2021, Howl-O-Ween has grown into a beloved annual tradition that draws bigger crowds each year. Organizers report raising over $35,000 in previous events, with this year’s turnout promising even more support for animal welfare.
The fundraiser ties into broader trends of pet-inclusive activities, especially around holidays like Halloween. Recent data from animal shelters across the U.S. shows a rise in adoption rates during such community events, as people see the joy pets bring to families. In Colorado alone, humane societies handled thousands of adoptions in 2025, and events like this play a key role in those numbers.
Kretchman pointed out the heartwarming sight of families putting effort into including their dogs in Halloween fun. This inclusion strengthens community ties and promotes responsible pet ownership. Snyder added that initiatives like Howl-O-Ween help make Mesa County a vibrant place to live, work, and enjoy outdoor activities with loved ones.
Looking ahead, the success of this event inspires plans for more pet-friendly gatherings. With climate forecasts predicting mild falls in the region, future editions could expand to include kid zones or virtual options for remote supporters. The logical next step is partnering with local vets for health checks during the event, ensuring every pup stays safe and healthy.
Why This Event Matters Now
In a year marked by increased focus on mental health and family bonding, Howl-O-Ween stands out as a timely way to celebrate. Studies from pet organizations indicate that activities with dogs reduce stress and boost happiness, aligning perfectly with post-pandemic recovery efforts. Grand Junction’s event reflects this national shift, where communities rally around causes that improve lives for both humans and animals.
The fundraiser also addresses practical challenges like shelter overcrowding. With more pets needing homes due to economic shifts in 2025, events that raise funds and awareness make a real difference. Participants left feeling not just entertained but empowered to support local nonprofits year-round.
If you love dogs and Halloween fun, share your thoughts in the comments below or tell friends about next year’s Howl-O-Ween. Your shares could help even more pups find forever homes.
