This year in Old Town, Halloween is officially going to the dogs.  

Kimpton’s Hotel Monaco Alexandria and Jackson 20 restaurant are welcoming back people and pooches alike to the Doggie Happy Howloween Costume Contest.  

Taking place in the hotel’s charming brick-lined courtyard, this year’s festivities will occur on Thursday, Oct. 30 from 5 to 8 p.m. to benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.  The event is free with a $10 suggested door donation to the animal welfare league.

Guests, two and four-legged alike, are encouraged to don creative costumes for the contest portion of the evening to compete with the leaders of the pack for prizes, including a Pampered Pooch package at 70 Park Avenue Hotel in New York City with two night deluxe accommodations ...and all the pet pampering a dog could want.

Charlie, a handsome Bischon and the hotel’s Director of Pet Relations, will join a panel of celebrity judges to rate human and canine costumers in the following categories:  

• The Political Pooch Award – awarded to the best politically-themed costume
  

• The Most Glamorous Get-Up – awarded to the dog who best lets out his/her inner diva   

• The Best Dressed Couple – awarded to the most creative pet/owner costume combo

• The ‘Top Dog’ Award – the grand prize for best all-around costume

During the evening’s festivities, guests will enjoy Halloween treats and beverages from the adjacent restaurant Jackson 20.  

Complimentary gourmet doggie treats and fresh water bowls will be available for all canine friends, and humans can enjoy cocktails and light bites by Jackson 20’s Executive Chef Jeff Armstrong.