QUINCY, ILL. -- It was an bitterly cold Saturday at Washington Park in Quincy, but that didn't stop dozens of our four-legged friends from coming out to play dress up. It was all part of the Mardi Pals in the District.
Owners dressed their pets in their most outrageous Mardi Gras costumes and joined a parade through the streets of downtown Quincy. Throughout the morning, KHQA's Rajah Maples and Jarod Wells along with Y101's Dennis Oliver stepped into the roles of judges.
"There are some very cute dogs here, you know. There's one dressed like the devil. I like that one," said Oliver. "I like that one too, it had shoes," said Maples.
And for good reason.
"They're adorable but they're so cold," said Maples. "As are the judges," said Oliver.
After the parade, our judges selected the most amazing pet costumes by their personality.
The winning pets were crowned King, Queen, Prince, Princess and Jester of the Royal Court.
After the parade, events continued for the more competitive canines.
"My dog, she's going to race in the Dachshund Derby," said Sophie Jones.
A new event this year was "Singing with the Stars," giving you an opportunity to showcase your pet's singing talents. All proceeds from this annual event will benefit Paw Pals and its mission to better the lives of pets through education and service to the community.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKHQA