Antioch putting pooches on parade to celebrate the season

There are plenty of events this time of year to get you in the holiday spirit. Now, there's a chance to bring Fido in on the action.

The Antioch Chamber of Commerce is launching a new event this weekend to celebrate the holiday season. Organizers hope the Holiday Dogs on Parade will become an annual tradition. Pets will don their holiday finest or Christmas costumes, with prizes going out to the best-dressed dogs. Then the dogs and their handlers will parade around the downtown area, collecting treats along the way.

Antioch Chamber Executive Director Barbara Porch tells us what you need to know.

Q. What makes this such a fabulous event?

A. Antioch's Holiday Dogs on Parade brings families and their pups together for the holidays. This event is designed to be fun the young of heart... no matter what their age! Plus this event will benefit Save-A-Pet, a no-kill shelter.

Q. How long has this event been in existence? How has it changed, and what is new this year?

A. This year marks the launch of Antioch's Holiday Dogs on Parade. This new event will be back each year and will grow bigger and better as the years pass.

Q. What's the highlight of the event?

A. Holiday Dogs on Parade includes contests for the dogs dressed in their holiday finery, special treats for dogs and their handlers, plus a "parade" around the sidewalks of Main and Lake streets where participating businesses will hand out treats.

Q. What kind of activities will appeal to kids and families?

A. Contests, dog costumes, fun and prizes appeal to kids of all ages.

Q. What about adults? What does the event offer them?

A. Adults will enjoy watching their children having a good time. In some families dogs are their children so they'll enjoy watching them have a good time, too!

Q. Tell us about the volunteers and organizers who pull this together.

A. The Antioch Chamber of Commerce has developed this annual event to bring enjoyment to the dog lovers of our community. Plus this is just the start of things to come in 2010. Watch for Antioch's DOGS ON THE CHAIN.

Q. Is there anything else we should know?

A. Dress warmly for the event since it will be held outdoors. All dogs must be "handled" by adults 18 years or older. Children are certainly welcome to come and join the fun and the parade, but the dogs' leashes must be held by adults at all times.