Can anyone enter their dog in the costume contest?

Yes, the costume contest is open to all dogs attending the event, and registration is done onsite or online prior to the event.

Are all dog breeds welcome?

Absolutely. This event welcomes dogs of all breeds and sizes, provided they are well-behaved and leashed.

Is the event indoors or outdoors?

The Howl-O-Ween Costume Walk is an outdoor event held throughout Reiman Gardens’ trails and paths.

Are there accommodations for pets outside the event?

Ames has several pet-friendly hotels and parks nearby to extend your stay with your pup comfortably.

Is food available for dogs and humans?

Outside Scoop provides seasonal human treats, and swag bags include dog-friendly goodies, but it’s best to bring your pet’s regular food and treats.

What happens if it rains?

The event is generally held rain or shine, but organizers provide updates and necessary adjustments if severe weather occurs.

Celebrate Fall With Your Furry Friend at the Howl-O-Ween Costume Walk in Ames, Iowa

Every October 31st, Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa, transforms into a playful and pet-friendly Halloween celebration that invites dog lovers and their four-legged companions to join one of the Midwest’s most charming Canine Costume Contests. The Howl-O-Ween Costume Walk is more than just a fun event—it’s a community gathering where creativity, autumn spirit, and canine joy collide at this beautifully maintained botanical garden located on the Iowa State University campus. Known for its year-round horticultural displays, Reiman Gardens turns especially festive during the fall, offering an outdoor venue filled with crisp air and vibrant foliage that perfectly complements the Halloween theme.

The highlight of the evening is the spirited Canine Costume Contest, where pups strut in their most imaginative getups, from spooky to silly, set against the garden’s scenic paths and fall blooms. Participants can also enjoy a fun photoshoot session to capture these memorable moments, ideal for sharing with friends or keeping as keepsakes of your pup’s Halloween debut. The event’s vibe is relaxed but lively, making it an excellent outing for families and pet enthusiasts alike.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, local favorite Outside Scoop serves up seasonal treats guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Meanwhile, every dog leaves with a Halloween Swag Bag loaded with goodies—a thoughtful touch that ensures each pup feels like a star. The event is a low-key, enjoyable way to celebrate the season, highlighting Reiman Gardens’ dedication not only to plants but also to community and connection.

Ames itself offers a welcoming base for visitors, with plenty of accommodations and restaurants that understand the pet-friendly vibe. While at Reiman Gardens, take time to explore the larger collection of native foliage and themed exhibits, making this Halloween experience doubly rich in local color and nature.

Whether you’re a local or traveling through Iowa, the Howl-O-Ween Costume Walk at Reiman Gardens offers a unique blend of outdoor festivity, pet camaraderie, and seasonal charm. It stands out in the region for its community spirit and pet-centric focus, a rare and delightful way to ring in Halloween with your beloved companion while enjoying the beauty of Ames’ iconic garden setting.

About Reiman Gardens

Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa offers year-round horticultural displays, seasonal events, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities that engage families, students, and garden enthusiasts. The facility hosts a variety of public experiences including speaker series, guided and self-guided tours, hands-on youth day camps, and specialized workshops such as dried floral wreath making and floral design. Signature experiences include the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing — open daily and featuring up to 800 live butterflies from around 80 species — plus seasonal highlights like Butterfly Blizzard and Nature at NIGHT.

Reiman Gardens programs combine accessible outdoor activities with instructional series and community-focused nights. Regular offerings include Nature with Nathan, a six-part entomology speaker series; Rovers at Reiman dog-friendly evenings; Garden Flow six-week gentle stretching sessions; Nature Journaling workshops; and members-only Wednesday walking club access. Community events range from Autumn Equinox Gothic Soiree (ages 18+) to Trivia Nights, Maker Nights, and seasonal forest bathing walks. Volunteer roles support Spirits in the Gardens (October 10–12), Pumpkin Prep, Butterfly Wing docent training, seasonal gardening and displays, and group volunteer opportunities. Reiman Gardens also offers admissions options, guided tours for youth and adults, and special previews like RG Express and Bonsai Show Member Preview. All program descriptions, schedules, and registration details are published by Reiman Gardens; visitors should consult official listings for dates, age requirements, and availability.

Members' Wednesday Walking Club meets Wednesday mornings and provides access to the Butterfly Wing and Conservatory beginning at 9:00 AM, offering a quieter visit and the chance to see horticulturalists at work.