Throughout May, pet-friendly events offering memorable experiences for both dogs and their owners are taking place across the country. From a Major League Baseball game and outdoor markets to talent shows and community walks, there are so many ways for you to bond with your pup this month!
May's Best Dog-Friendly Events
Posted by Kaitlin Stephens
Bark in the Park with the Cincinnati Reds
Bring your furry friend to Great American Ballpark for Bark in the Park with the Cincinnati Reds! Canine fans are welcome in sections 137, 138 and 139 on special dog-friendly days. SPCA Cincinnati will have adoptable dogs in the First Star Fan Zone, and you can enjoy early access through Gate I. You must sign a waiver confirming that your dog's vaccinations are up to date and purchase a special ticket which will permit one human and one dog.
Bark in the Park with the Cincinnati Reds will be held on April 28. Residence Inn by Marriott Cincinnati Downtown/the Phelps is within walking distance and located across from Lytle Park, an urban garden that’s perfect for a short stroll with Fido.
Downtown Dog Day
You won’t want to miss out on the lively atmosphere of Downtown Dog Day, held each year in Springfield, MO. This event boasts entertainment, pet-focused businesses, food and treats for you and your pet. You can meet adorable adoptable animals and explore a variety of local vendors. There will be live music, plus fun activities suitable for all ages. Also, don't miss the opportunity to showcase your pet’s skills at the TAME Booth's Talent Show, with awards available across multiple categories.
Downtown Dog Day will be held on May 4. After Fido has exhausted all his energy, he can unwind at the beautiful Hotel Vandivort, just a couple blocks away.
Glens Falls Pet Fest
Glens Falls Pet Fest returns for its seventh year in downtown Glen Falls, NY. You and Fido can enjoy a day of pet-friendly activities, including demonstrations, a lure course, a Dogs Got Talent contest, an adoptable dog fashion show, and a variety of vendors offering grooming services, boarding, veterinary care and more. Don't miss out on food trucks, kids' activities, and educational materials alongside your four-legged companions.
Glens Falls Pet Fest will be held on May 19. The Queensbury Hotel is just a short walk away when Fido is ready for a nap. It's also located next door to the quaint Glens Falls City Park, a relaxing central spot for dog-friendly strolls.
Woofstock at the Barnacle
Experience a day of peace, love and paws for a cause at Woofstock, hosted at The Historic Barnacle State Park! The day will be full of activities, pet-focused vendors, and informational booths about local rescues. There will be opportunities to participate in contests like dog/owner look-alike, best pet trick, and best costume, plus an exciting canine lure course, a doggy caricature artist, and blessings for your furry friends. Human companions can enjoy drinks and light snacks while relaxing at a picnic table on the front lawn.
Woofstock at the Barnacle will be held on May 5. When Fido’s ready to go, you can stay at Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, which is centrally located to many pet-friendly activities in Miami.
Tails & Trails Pet Festival
Don't miss out on the annual Tails & Trails Pet Festival at Glacial Till Vineyard in Palmyra, NE. Hang out with Fido and enjoy delicious food from vendors while listening to local entertainer, DJ Music LNK, and meeting adoptable dogs. They’ll have pet- and people-friendly activities, a caricature artist drawing pictures of you and your pup, local food trucks, demonstrations, and pet-themed vendors offering games, contests and photo ops.
Tails & Trails Pet Festival will be held on May 18. Out-of-towners can stay at Annabell Gardens for the night, and if you're hungry, be sure to check out Granite City Food & Brewery nearby.
Bark at The Moon
Bark at the Moon is the Humane Society of Utah’s most popular event each year, and it’s back for 2024 in Salt Lake City, UT. Bring your family, friends, and Fido downtown for a night of fun, featuring a variety of pet vendors, live music, food trucks, craft beer, and a spacious splash pad for dogs to play and socialize. At the end of the night, pets and their owners can enjoy a glo-walk beginning at 9 p.m.
Bark at The Moon will be held on May 18. Spend the night in the city at Homewood Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City Downtown and enjoy brunch the next day at Bruges Waffles & Frites located next door.
Westport Dog Festival
The Westport Dog Festival in Westport, CT anticipates 3000 people and 1000 dogs will attend this year, and it’s considered the "best dog festival in the state!" Families and their canine companions can experience fun competitions and obstacle courses, watch police K9 presentations, and take part in educational pet demonstrations. They can also meet adoptable animals, shop from local vendors, and enjoy a variety of eats from visiting food trucks.
Westport Dog Festival will be held on May 19. EVEN Hotel Norwalk an IHG Hotel is a short drive from the event when Fido has had all the fun can handle.
Do you have a favorite dog-friendly festival to attend with Fido? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!
Banner photo by Facebook.com/UtahHumane.