Dog Events in Poolesville, MD

Two- and four-legged friends are invited to celebrate Halloween in this annual event! Dress Fido in his best costume and head over for a fun-filled afternoon featuring trick-or-treating, vendors, live music, food, dog competitions, and more!

A Halloween-themed dog parade and costume contest with vendors, demonstrations, and family-friendly activities along Carroll Creek. The event welcomes leashed dogs and raises funds for Lions Club charities while awarding prizes in multiple costume categories.

On Wednesdays, during regular daytime hours, leashed dogs are welcome in the gardens (only service dogs are permitted on other days). Each adult may bring one dog. All attendees must sign an Assumption of Risk and Rules of Participation form before entering. Dogs must be leashed at all times with a non-retractable leash no longer than 6 feet. Loaner leashes are available at the Admissions Desk, and adult handlers are responsible for keeping dogs under control and out of landscape beds.

This dog-friendly holiday event invites guests to explore the Winter Lights Festival on foot, choosing a leisurely 1-mile stroll or a more challenging 3-mile walk among hundreds of illuminated displays. Visitors can enjoy a hot drink and take photos with Santa while experiencing the festive lights up close. There will be no onsite sales for Walk & Wag. All tickets must be purchased online in advance. If you want to enjoy the lights from the comfort of your car, the drive-through experience, Winter Lights Festival, begins on November 28th.

The Mantua community is the perfect setting for this annual Thanksgiving dash. You and Fido will wind along the 4-mile course through pretty neighborhoods and tree-lined pathways displaying the beautiful colors of fall. All participants will receive a custom Fairfax Turkey Trot T-shirt. Please note dogs and their owners should start in the back of the pack.

The Arthritis Foundation’s race is the original festive race for charity with your pup. It’s where you can strut your stuff in your favorite holiday costume. Bring a team of friends, family, and co-workers to run or walk. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash. Check-in starts at 8 AM and the race begins at 9 AM.

Sip on brews, shop from local vendors and let your pup join the fun! You'll find handmade and small-batch gifts, pet-themed products and seasonal treats for your four-legged friends, cozy self-care and wellness items, and more.

Join a gentle, all-levels yoga session surrounded by the joy of puppies and dogs. Stretch, breathe, and connect while supporting spay, neuter, and rescue programs. All friendly dogs welcome—must be up to date on vaccinations, and owners must email proof prior to the event.

Bring your pup to experience a beautiful festival of holiday lights! Scheduled dates for 2026 are November 16, 17, & 24, and December 1, 2, 28 & 29. Fido is welcome to join you on designated nights while you walk through the elegant garden trail and admire the lighted trees and displays featuring nature, winter and holiday themes. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets must be purchased online. Please check their website for all rules and regulations.

Take a 3.5-mile drive with Fido through 450 illuminated displays and holiday-lit trees! Advance ticket purchase is required for this event. Guests are invited to bring snacks and drinks to enjoy while visiting the lights. Your pup must remain in the car with your at all times. Tickets must be purchased in advance. If you want to experience the lights on foot, there will be a special dog-friendly, no-traffic night on November 23rd called Winter Lights Festival Walk & Wag.