California’s pup-friendly festivals make the dog days of summer truly exciting. Under bright Golden State skies, you can enjoy beer tastings, baseball games, adoptathons and camp experiences all designed for four-legged friends.

This week, DogTrekker dishes up details on our favorite summer/fall events. These gatherings raise funds for animal welfare organizations that provide vital rescue services and medical care for dogs in need. Why not make a difference with your pup by your side? Here’s your guide to top dog-focused festivals from summer into fall from Big Bear Lake to The San Francisco Peninsula and beyond.

Pints For Paws June 6, Berkeley

Save the date for the 2026 Pints for Paws®, now in its 11th year. Regularly voted Best Fundraising Event in the East Bay, the gathering includes unlimited craft beer samples, live music, games and the chance to meet friendly dogs. Tickets sell out every year, and every dollar raised supports shelter pets and life-saving programs by Berkeley Humane.

Bark n’ Brewfest June 27, Burlingame

This pet-friendly beer tasting in the park raises funds for the neediest shelter animals at the Peninsula Humane Society. A ticket lets you sample beers from 20+ local brewers and meet adorable, adoptable animals. Not a drinker? Enjoy BBQ and sides by Sunset29, which donates 10% of the day’s profits to shelter animals.

Dog Days at Oracle Park July 11 and September 12, San Francisco

Bring your pup to Oracle Park for a PAW-SOME day with the SF SPCA, as the Giants take on the Rockies (July 11) and the Padres (September 12). Participate in costume contests, on-field parades and other best-in-show fun. Partial proceeds support the SF SPCA’s life-saving work. Dogs need a ticket to sit in designated Dog Days sections.

Puptopia Big Bear July 25, Big Bear Lake

The annual Big Bear Puptopia Festival promises a tail-wagging day of fun. Visit the Pawground, relax in the K9 Lounge, watch stunt shows at the main stage, pamper your pup at The Spaw, test agility in the Pupformance Zone, and shop at a pup-focused marketplace. All the dog-friendly festivities take place at Veteran’s Park.

World Dog Surfing Championships August 1, Pacifica

Get ready for the ultimate surf showdown as the annual World Dog Surfing Championships return to Pacifica’s Linda Mar Beach. Watch top dog surfing teams from around the country (and beyond) hit the waves in crowd-favorite heats. The dog surfers are invited to bring home the gold for charity. Stay for the weekend at a San Francisco Peninsula dog-passionate hotel.

Wag, Wine & Dine August 23, Napa

Join Waggin’ Trails Rescue for a paws-itively delightful afternoon of Wag, Wine & Dine. Spoil your pups with a day of indulgence while you savor delicious bites, entertainment and wine at Meritage Resort & Spa. There are several levels of participation that will help save the lives of countless animals.

Bark & Meow Around the Block August 29, Berkeley

Join Berkeley Humane’s Bark & Meow Around the Block, a free, family-friendly street fair featuring hundreds of adoptable pets plus live music, food, beer and local vendors. Meet shelter animals, connect with community members and support pet adoption at this outdoor festival held at 2700 Ninth St., Berkeley.

Wild Blue Dogs Fall Camp, September 13-19, South Lake Tahoe

Wild Blue Dogs hosts an unforgettable weeklong dog camp on the shores of South Lake Tahoe. Bond with your pup while hiking, swimming, and learning together as certified trainers lead activities like agility, rally, nose work, kayaking and more. Wild Blue Dog Camp truly is play with purpose, with all proceeds supporting canine cancer research and treatment programs.

Bark in the Park September 19, San Jose

Bark in the Park returns to downtown San Jose’s William Street Park in September. Bark is among the largest dog festivals in the United States, and it promises fun for the entire family – especially pups. Participate in contests throughout the day, chat with vendors offering dog-specific goods and services, sample delicious food and drink, and enjoy much more.

DogFest Bay Area October 17, San Francisco

Don’t miss DogFest Bay Area, now celebrating 51 incredible years of Canine Companions. Have fun while honoring the group’s deep commitment to the mission of providing expertly trained service dogs to individuals with disabilities – all free of charge. DogFest is a family-friendly, pet-friendly event that’s open to everyone! There is no fee to register.