Commission approves Panorama Dog Park Halloween dog costume contest for Oct. 25

The Cathedral City Parks and Community Events Commission voted unanimously April 1 to approve a Halloween dog costume contest at Panorama Dog Park on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, and authorized $100 from the commission’s budget for miscellaneous charges.

The event is planned to follow the park’s grand reopening after scheduled maintenance in October. Commissioners said the contest will follow the format used the prior two years: registration at 9 a.m., judging starting at 9:30 a.m., and separate small- and large-dog categories with first-through-third prizes. Staff reported that last year’s contest drew an estimated 244 attendees and 30 competing dogs.

Commissioners asked staff whether overseeding or other maintenance could prevent the park from being ready; staff indicated they did not foresee a conflict but will monitor the park’s progress. The motion to approve the event was made by Vice Chair Bai Shu and seconded by Chair Hyland; the roll call showed all present commissioners voting yes (4–0), with Commissioner Martinez absent.

The commission noted that, after the commission’s approval, the event will be brought to the City Council for final scheduling or budget housekeeping at a July or August meeting once the city’s fiscal budget is set. Staff said they will confirm final logistics, including staffing needs and any weekend staffing arrangements, before the event.

The commission’s approval covers the event concept and the $100 miscellaneous request; additional changes to staffing or budget will be returned to staff and, if required, placed on the council agenda.