By Peighton Yoakam OMAHA, Neb.- Midtown Crossing’s Turner Park went to the dogs this weekend — literally. Woofstock: Halloween in the Bark brought hundreds of pups and their owners together for an afternoon of costumes, games and community fun.
A dog-friendly tradition with a focus on community
For Midtown Crossing, events like Woofstock aren’t just about fun, they’re about fostering connection.
“Such a big component of who we are here at Midtown Crossing is a dog-friendly community,” said Amanda Lustgraaf, Senior Marketing Communications Specialist for Midtown Crossing. “This is one of our few events that are dog-focused, so the entire event was built around dogs, and we find that really dogs bring the community together.”
The event featured a pop-up dog park, outdoor games and a Halloween costume parade that wound through Turner Park and the neighborhood.
“The fact that Woofstock is more than dog-friendly — it’s dog-focused — is a real sweet spot for the event,” Amanda said. “There’s a fenced-off area for dogs to play off leash, with a small dog area and large dog area so everyone is safe and has an enjoyable time.”
Local vendors and small business support
About seven local vendors set up booths, all offering pet-friendly products such as treats, bows and bandanas. The event also gave Omaha’s small businesses and rescue organizations a platform to connect with the community. Midtown Crossing regularly partners with nearby retailers and restaurants to make each event a neighborhood-wide effort.
“Fun” is the word
If Amanda had to describe Woofstock in one word, it’s simple: fun.
“Attendees are encouraged to dress their dogs in costumes,” she said. “We’re doing a costume parade through Turner Park and around the neighborhood to truly give those dogs an opportunity to shine.”
Patios throughout Midtown Crossing are now officially dog-friendly, meaning that even after the event ends, Omaha dog owners can continue to enjoy time with their pets in the heart of the city.
Building connection year-round
Woofstock is one of more than 100 events Midtown Crossing hosts each year, but it’s one that highlights what makes the area special.
“It’s so fun to see people come together, enjoy the space together, enjoy the neighborhood and just have a really nice time,” Amanda said.
With wagging tails, creative costumes and plenty of smiles, Woofstock once again proved that Halloween fun doesn’t have to be limited to humans.
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