
BARC-O-Ween Returns October 25: Free Pet Adoptions, Fall Fun & Family Activities at BARC Houston
The furriest fall festival in Houston is back. BARC, the City of Houston’s Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, is thrilled to host the second annual BARC-O-Ween adoption event on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 3300 Carr Street—offering waived adoption fees and a full day of family-friendly Halloween fun.
With hundreds of adoptable pets eagerly awaiting new homes, this seasonal celebration gives families and individuals the perfect opportunity to meet their new best friend while enjoying trunk-or-treating, local vendors, food trucks, and festive photo ops.
“We are excited to bring BARC-O-Ween back for a second year after such a successful debut in 2024,” said Jarrad Mears, BARC Shelter Director. “Events like this help us connect with the community, raise awareness for pet adoption, and—most importantly—find loving homes for our animals.”
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A Spooktacular Day of Giving Pets a Second Chance
Thanks to generous support from Trust Guss Injury Lawyers and the Yourgi app by Destination Pet, all adoption fees will be waived during the event—helping reduce shelter overcrowding and making it easier than ever for animals to find the forever families they deserve.
Visitors will enjoy:
- Trunk-or-treating, face painting, and fall-themed photo stations
- Giveaways and pet resources from local community partners
- Shopping from vendors including Patitas Artesanal, Maddie’s Delights, and PopSton
- Free swag bags for the first 75 adopters
- Complimentary beverages for adults courtesy of Saint Arnold Brewing Company
- Tasty bites available for purchase from food trucks on-site
Costumes are encouraged, and families of all ages are welcome to attend—just leave your own pets at home unless they are certified service animals.

Supporting Animal Welfare in Houston
Behind the scenes of this vibrant event is BARC’s ongoing mission to serve Houston’s two- and four-legged residents. BARC takes in over 22,000 animals each year, regardless of breed, behavior, or health condition. As a city-run shelter, BARC champions public safety, humane care, and responsible pet ownership through services such as:
- Low- and no-cost spay/neuter programs
- Mobile adoption events and rescue partnerships
- Pet microchipping and registration
- Animal cruelty investigations and community response teams
Events like BARC-O-Ween highlight BARC’s broader impact and invite the public to be part of the solution. With community involvement, sponsorship support from Petco Love, the Houston BARC Foundation, Friends of BARC, and local businesses, this October event is more than just a party—it’s a chance to change lives.
To learn more about BARC’s lifesaving programs or stay updated on BARC-O-Ween activities and participating vendors, visit houstonbarc.com.
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Plan Your Visit
- Event: BARC-O-Ween Adoption Event
- Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
- Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Location: BARC Animal Shelter & Adoption Center, 3300 Carr Street, Houston, TX (MAP)
- Admission: Free (Waived adoption fees for all pets)
- Note: Outside pets are not allowed, except for service animals
Whether you’re ready to adopt or simply looking to enjoy a fall day filled with kindness, costumes, and community spirit, BARC-O-Ween offers something for everyone—and every paw.
