Newtown’s canine version of Halloween, known as Howl-O-Ween, drew about 75 participants and their dogs to the event held on Sunday, October 28, at Park & Bark, the town’s fenced off-leash dog park at Fairfield Hills.

Adverse weather had resulted in the event being rescheduled from Saturday to Sunday. Though overcast and chilly, conditions were better than the preceding day’s rainy/blustery conditions.

It was the ninth time that the Parks & Recreation Department has staged the annual event. RoseAnn Reggiano, the department’s assistant director for recreation, served as the emcee.

Howl-O-Ween drew a variety of dogs, including mutts, hounds, exotics, German shepherds, Bernese mountain dogs, labrador retrievers, Great Danes, cocker spaniels, and Chihuahuas.

Among the costumes worn by the various breeds were frogs, crocodiles, horses, Spider-Man, and a French toast sandwich.

Participants took part in a range of costume contests, raffles, and games. Costume contests included prizes for the scariest, the cutest, the most original, the best human/canine look-alike, and best in show.

Funds raised by the event benefit the dog park, the town’s designated area for canine recreation.