Hillsborough County, Fla. (Jan. 9, 2026) - Dogs from Hillsborough County's Pet Resource Center will once again take part in the Pirate Pup Parade & Costume Contest, which will be held Sunday, Jan. 11, in the Water Street area in downtown Tampa.
In addition to the dog parade and the costume contest, the popular event features face painting, pet caricatures, pet adoptions, treats, gear, and goodies for dogs, as well as music and performances.
Sunday's festivities are organized by Water Street Tampa, with activities scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Pirate Pup Parade starts at noon on Water Street, and the Pirate Pup Costume Contest begins at 2 p.m. at Sparkman Wharf.
Best of all, the dogs from the County's pet shelter that are participating Sunday will be available for adoption. The Pet Resource Center, 440 N. Falkenburg Rd., Tampa, FL 33619, is the only open-admission shelter in Hillsborough County, meaning it takes in dogs and cats regardless of breed, size, or age. The shelter currently has more than 200 dogs, putting it well over capacity. All dogs are microchipped, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered. Information about dogs and cats available for adoption at the Pet Resource Center can be found at HCFL.gov/pets.