Dachshund Parade at Oktoberfest with the Cubs: How to Enter Your Dog
A line of dachshunds in tiny lederhosen waddling down The Toyota Camry Lot might be the most Chicago thing that happened next to Wrigley Field last year. The Dachshund Parade at Oktoberfest with the Cubs pulled in a packed crowd, lots of phones, and some seriously photogenic pups. Whether the festival comes back this year or you are just curious how it worked, here is how the parade ran and what entering looks like for future events.
Why the Dachshund Parade Became a Crowd Favorite
Wiener dog parades are a Bavarian tradition, and Chicago has fully embraced the format. Last year's parade at the ballpark felt warm, silly, and very on-brand for the neighborhood.
The Bavarian Connection
Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany for hunting badgers, and the breed is closely tied to Bavarian culture. Most major Oktoberfests around the world include some kind of wiener dog component. Some run actual races, some run parades, and a few do both. Last year's Cubs event went with the parade format, which is much more chill for the dogs.
What the Parade Looks Like
Owners walk their dachshunds in a small loop around a designated area at Gallagher Way. Costumes are encouraged, and most owners go all out. Mini lederhosen, dirndls, pretzel hats, beer mug costumes, and even tiny cubs jerseys made the lineup last year. A panel of unofficial judges hands out prizes for best costume, best couple, and most spirited.
The Crowd Energy
The crowd circling the parade route is massive. People bring kids, friends, and plenty of phones. The energy is encouraging and warm, not competitive. Even the shyest dog gets cheered on. The parade is one of the most photographed moments of the whole weekend.
How Registration Worked Last Year
Entering a dachshund in last year's parade was straightforward. The process likely stays similar if the event runs again.
Pre-Registration Online
Owners registered ahead of the festival through the Oktoberfest with the Cubs page. Spots were limited, since the parade has to keep moving and The Toyota Camry Lot only has so much room. A small registration fee usually applies. Anyone interested in future events should keep an eye on the Cubs website and Gallagher Way announcements when fall rolls around.
Vet and Behavior Requirements
The festival asked that all participating dogs be up to date on vaccinations and comfortable in crowds. The parade gets loud, with music, applause, and lots of strollers. A nervous or reactive dog may have a tough time, so honest assessment of your pup's social energy matters here.
Day-of Check-In
Check-in for the parade happened at a designated tent at The Toyota Camry Lot before the parade start time. Owners received a bib or number to wear with their dog, plus a quick rundown of the route. Showing up early helped with parking, finding the tent, and giving your dog a chance to settle.
How to Get Your Dachshund Parade-Ready
Even a chill dachshund needs some prep before a big crowd event. A few weeks of light training can make the whole experience smoother.
Practice Walking in Costume
Dogs do not love wearing clothes by default. Put your pup in their parade outfit for short stretches at home in the weeks leading up to the event. Reward them with treats. Build the time slowly, since a fully costumed dog might walk weird the first time. Try a short walk in the costume before the actual parade.
Get Used to Crowds
Take your dachshund to busier parks, sidewalks, and outdoor cafes in the weeks before. Exposure to crowds, strollers, and other dogs helps reduce nervousness on parade day. If your dog is reactive to crowds, this event might not be the right fit, and that is fine. Plenty of other Oktoberfest activities work for spectators with dogs.
Pack Smart
A few essentials helped owners last year. Worth bringing if you plan to enter:
- A short, sturdy leash, not a retractable one, since parades require close control
- Plenty of poop bags
- A small water bottle and collapsible bowl
- Treats for rewards along the route
- A backup outfit, in case the original gets damaged or soaked
Parade-Day Tips
Once you are at The Toyota Camry Lot and the parade is about to start, a few small things make the whole experience easier.
Arrive Early
Showing up at least 30 to 45 minutes early gives you time to check in, take photos before the chaos, let your dog use the bathroom, and find your spot in the lineup. Arriving last-minute is stressful for both you and your pup.
Keep Cool If Your Dog Gets Spooked
If your dachshund gets overwhelmed mid-parade, it is totally fine to step out. Volunteers are usually understanding. Picking your dog up briefly to reassure them, or even leaving the route, is better than forcing a stressed pup through the rest of the loop.
Have a Photographer Friend
Phones get pulled out everywhere, but having a friend specifically take photos and short videos of your pup helps capture the moment. The route moves quickly, so designate someone to record. You will want the footage later.
Bring Your Pup Back to Wrigleyville
The Dachshund Parade was one of the most charming moments of last year's Oktoberfest with the Cubs, and it captured exactly what makes a Chicago weekend around Wrigley Field special. For future trips, you can plan a non-gameday Wrigley Field tour and pair it with a stroll through the neighborhood. Check the Cubs Team Store or Cubs online shop for fan gear before your next visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register my dog in advance for the parade?
Yes. Last year's parade required pre-registration through the Oktoberfest with the Cubs page, since spots were limited.
Can other small dog breeds enter the parade?
The parade is specifically for dachshunds. Other breeds may be allowed in general dog-friendly areas of the festival, depending on the event rules.
Is there a fee to enter the Dachshund Parade?
A small registration fee usually applies. Specific pricing for any future event would be listed at registration.
Are costumes required for the parade?
Costumes are encouraged but not strictly required. Most dogs do dress up, and the costume judging is part of the fun.
What if my dachshund is nervous around crowds?
Skip the parade and enjoy the festival as a spectator instead. A nervous dog will not have a good time in the lineup.
Can I bring my dog to other Wrigleyville events?
Gallagher Way allows leashed pets during non-gameday public hours, though access is restricted for specific events. Check the Gallagher Way FAQ for current pet policies before bringing your dog.