Barks & Boos Dog Halloween Day at the LA Arboretum

Dogs in costumes, craft beer and a garden full of adoptable pets: Barks & Boos is the Arboretum's Halloween party for pups and the people who walk them. It lands on Saturday, October 10, and it is easily one of the more charming things to do in Los Angeles this month if you share your home with a dog.

When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 (festivities run 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. per the Arboretum) Where: L.A. Arboretum Price: $18 general admission; $10 for each dog Tickets and info: arboretum.org

What to expect

The day is a fundraiser for Pasadena Humane and the LA Arboretum Foundation, so every dog fee goes back to those two organizations. Pasadena Humane brings adoptable pets to meet visitors, and info tables and vendors sit along the paths for anyone curious about pet adoption and care.

Humans get their own treats. Food trucks and The Mt. Lowe Brewing Company are on site selling bites and craft beer, so you can eat and sip while your dog sniffs out the lawn. The Arboretum also lists a free dog portrait for pups, and an agility course for dogs with an adventurous streak. No tricks are required, only treats and a little howl-o-ween spirit.

The headline moment is the dog costume contest, which kicks off at 2:30 p.m. Dress your dog in its Halloween best, and if you feel like it, coordinate your own outfit. Entering is optional, so a plain collar is fine too.

Practical notes

Dogs need a ticket and are welcome from opening to closing. They must stay leashed at all times and keep to the paved paths and grass fields. Bring poop bags, since owners are expected to pick up after their dogs. Non-members pay admission for every human guest in addition to the $10 dog fee, and the Arboretum asks guests to review its liability waiver before arriving.

Plan for a lot of sun and walking in the garden, so pack water for your dog and a collapsible bowl. Arrive early if you want time with the adoptable pets before the crowds build.

If you are building a weekend plan, this is a strong pick among LA events this weekend for families, dog owners and anyone who likes a good costume. Browse more outdoor events or the Los Angeles guide for other ideas.

The start time in the header is a placeholder because the source did not publish a clock time in structured data. Trust the 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. window above and confirm on the Arboretum's page before you go.