The Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside hosted its 4th Annual “Yappy Hour” Dog Parade and Costume Contest on Sunday, October 26, transforming Central Park Plaza in Puerto Aventuras into a lively celebration of creativity, community, and canine charm.
Dozens of dogs strutted their stuff in costumes ranging from spooky to downright hilarious, while their proud humans cheered them on. The crowd joined in the fun by casting votes for the coveted “Top Yapper” title — a crowd-favorite award decided by popular vote. Spectators and participants alike enjoyed an afternoon filled with laughter, wagging tails, and good company, proving once again that Puerto Aventuras knows how to have fun for a good cause.
Winners trotted away with prizes and treats, while their owners received gifts generously donated by local Puerto Aventuras businesses. More importantly, the event raised funds for Rotary International’s END POLIO NOW campaign — part of the organization’s decades-long effort to eradicate polio across the globe.
Rotary has led this humanitarian mission for more than 35 years, reducing cases by 99.9% worldwide. To date, Rotary members have contributed over $2.1 billion and countless volunteer hours to protect nearly 3 billion children in 122 countries from this devastating disease. Their advocacy has also inspired governments worldwide to commit more than $10 billion toward the cause.
The 2025 “Yappy Hour” Dog Parade and Costume Contest was sponsored this year by:
Local support from businesses and individuals of fundraising events like this and our annual Riviera Maya Chili Cook-Off allows the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside to continue our valuable community programs and help more at-risk families and children in the Riviera Maya.
A big thank you to this year’s panel of crack judges. The discerning eyes of MVZ Martin Rodriguez Lima, veterinarian and professional dog trainer based in Chemuyil, Sue Silva, founding member and President of Playa Animal Rescue and MVZ Zair Orlando Godinez Espinosa from Playa-Pet Puerto Aventuras worked hard to pick out the top dogs in each category!
Thank you to everyone who participated, including our judges and volunteers who helped make Seaside Rotary’s 4th Annual “Yappy Hour” Halloween Dog Parade & Costume Contest a rousing success. Check out some of the photos from the day!
