Pets and Pumpkins 2026 | Downtown Springfield Family Festival

The Pets and Pumpkins Family Festival is one of Springfield’s most beloved fall traditions, filling Park Central Square with costumes, Halloween fun and plenty of furry friends. There’s something for the whole family to enjoy, including the fur kids, and best of all, almost 100% of the gate fee is donated to local nonprofits supporting children in foster care and organizations working to save the lives of homeless animals.

The highlight of the day is one of the largest costume parades in Missouri, hosted by TAME Magazine. Both pets and people are invited to join the walking parade and costume contest, with lineup beginning at approximately 2:15 p.m. on Park Central East next to Civil Kitchen.

Pets and Pumpkins is Saturday, October 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Park Central Square in downtown Springfield. Admission is $2 per attendee, including kids, pets and adults, and covers all activities at no extra cost, including the parade and costume contest. This is a rain or shine event. For updates, vendor details and costume inspiration, check out Pets and Pumpkins on Facebook.