Circleville Pumpkin Show Pet Parade Turns 100 in 2025
Article Presented By Pickaway Ross CTC Adult Education…
(Circleville) – October 2025 — What began as a small gathering of children and their dogs in 1925 has grown into one of the most beloved traditions of the Circleville Pumpkin Show: the annual Pet Parade, now celebrating its 100th anniversary.
The first Pet Parade featured seven categories, including “Typical Boy and His Dog,” “Greatest Number of Pets by One Person,” and “Unusual or Freak Pets.” Awards ranged from fifty cents to five dollars, and each child who participated received a box of candy. Over the years, the parade has expanded to include cats, exotic animals, miniature floats, decorated bicycles, and more—showcasing both creativity and community pride.
The Pet Parade has remained a charming constant through generations, offering a space where children and families can express joy, imagination, and love for their animals. While the show has seen many changes over the decades, the spirit of the Pet Parade has endured.
To commemorate the 100th anniversary, this year’s event will include the release of a limited-edition souvenir pin featuring two rescue animals, Bentley and Chester, representing the Pickaway County Dog Shelter and the Circle Area Humane Society. This collectible item celebrates not just the parade’s legacy, but also the vital role of animal welfare in the community. Souvenir pre-sales—including apparel for the first time—begin Tuesday, August 26 at the Pickaway County Visitors Bureau and Circleville Apothecary.
The 2025 Pet Parade will be held on Friday, October 17 at 3:30 p.m., sponsored by the Circleville Kiwanis. Line-up and registration will take place on East Main Street from 2:15 to 3:15 p.m., with judging immediately following at South Pickaway and East Franklin Streets.
This year’s categories include Typical Boy and His Pet, Typical Girl and Her Pet, Unusual Pets (Boys and Girls), Best Dressed Dog and Cat, Best Decorated Bicycle, and Best Miniature Float (pet not required). Prizes will be awarded for first through fifth place in each category, including trophies and cash awards. Participants must reside in Pickaway County or the Circleville Trading Area. Horses and ponies are not permitted.
The Pet Parade is made possible through the combined efforts of Circleville Pumpkin Show Inc., Circleville Kiwanis, the Pickaway County Dog Shelter, and the Circle Area Humane Society, with the support of numerous volunteers.
For more information about the Pet Parade or the 2025 Circleville Pumpkin Show, visit www.pumpkinshow.com or call (740) 474-7000.
