An estimated 200 people and their furry companions came together in Ridgewood for Tiny Arts Supply’s Halloween dog parade on Saturday, Oct. 29.
Vanessa America, owner of Tiny Arts Supply, told QNS that people came from New Jersey, Harlem, Bay Ridge, Jackson Heights and Corona, to join in on the festivities.
The parade began at Tiny Arts Supply, located at 58-42 Catalpa Ave., in Ridgewood.
Julia’s was the first stop of the parade. The cafe provided bacon and water for the pups.
The next stops were Topos Bookstore and Saint Seneca, with both spots offering tasty treats.
The parade ended at Two Monsters Pet Shop, where Ridgewalks was waiting with photo ops and treats.
America first decided to launch the parade during year’s Halloween season. She could not attend the Tompkins Square Dog Parade because she was working at her store and the idea was born.
“I wanted to see dogs in costume! It’s a really joyful occasion,” America said. “It’s about community building, something that people can experience for free and it brings the neighborhood together.”
While America does not have dogs, she wanted to organize something that both puppy owners and puppy lovers could participate in and enjoy.
“I have this space, this brick-and-mortar art store, and I can use it to give space to really cool things, to bring cheer to my neighborhood,” she told QNS.
America has lived in Ridgewood for 14 years and opened Tiny Arts Supply in April of 2021 after noticing that Ridgewood did not have access to art supplies.
Today, Tiny Arts Supply hosts workshops by local artists for the community where they can learn how to paint and create art on their own, such as watercolor paint and figure drawing. Tiny Arts Supply provides supplies for participants but they are welcome to bring their own.
