As leaves start falling and harvest season unfolds, dog-friendly festivals across California offer food and fun for pups and the people who follow. Stunning settings make each event extra special, whether you attend a celebration in the vineyards of Napa, on the Pismo Beach waterfront, or in Oakland’s historic Jack London Square.
This week, DogTrekker dishes up details on adoptathons, fundraisers, wine festivals and other seasonal celebrations that promise family-friendly fun – while also supporting life-saving services for furry friends.
Wag, Dine & Dine
August 25, Napa
Join Waggin’ Trails Rescue for a pawsitively delightful afternoon of Wag, Wine & Dine events. Treat your furry friend to a day of indulgence while you savor delicious bites and sip on wine. You’ll enjoy affordable entertainment, food and drinks at Meritage Resort & Spa – and best of all, your participation in this fundraiser will help save the lives of countless animals!
Pismo Beach Corgi Getaway
September 6 to 8, Pismo Beach
Calling all corgi lovers: The Pismo Beach Corgi Getaway happens in early September. The three-day weekend event celebrates corgis and their pet parents in the picturesque, pup-friendly city of Pismo Beach. Attend exclusive VIP events, including a welcome luau party, wine-tasting experience and Sunday farewell brunch, along with a Corgi Beach Fest that’s open to all corgis and honorary corgis.
Bark & Meow Around the Block
September 7, Berkeley
Berkeley Humane’s largest annual adopt-a-thon and family-friendly street fair, Bark & Meow Around the Block, returns to 2700 Ninth St. Berkeley this September. The free, outdoor event features hundreds of adoptable animals from shelters and rescues throughout the Bay Area. You’ll also find live music, food and beer, pet vendors, related retailers, and so much more.
Milo Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Celebration
September 14, Point Richmond
The Milo Foundation is turning 30! Swing by Milo Dog Park to help mark an incredible milestone for this treasured nonprofit, which has rescued close to 50,000 animals. This year’s celebration honors the tireless efforts of volunteers and supporters who have made so much good work possible, and everyone is invited to take part in the festivities.
Wild Blue Dogs Fall Camp
September 16 to 22, South Lake Tahoe
There are still a few spots left for Wild Blue Dogs Fall Camp on the shores of beautiful Lake Tahoe! Camp activities include agility exercises, guided hikes on scenic trails, kayak and paddle boarding outings, nose work sessions and more. “Overall, this is one of the most fun and positive experiences I have had in years,” raves one past camper.
Bark in the Park
September 21, San Jose
Bark in the Park returns to downtown San Jose’s William Street Park. 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 Northwest
October 19, Oakland
Gather your friends, family and four-legged pals for a day of fun at DogFest Northwest in Oakland’s Jack London Square. DogFest supports the mission of Canine Companions, an organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing free, expertly trained service dogs. The day-long event includes awesome vendors, fun activities, plenty of music and the annual canine costume contest.
Corgi Beach Day
October 26, Huntington Dog Beach
Corgi Beach Day is back on Saturday, October 26, at Huntington Dog Beach! There will be brand new contests and events, new vendors and sponsors, interactive-style pet/owner selfie stations with a special theme, and activities and fun for all! The theme for fall Corgi Beach Day is always Halloween!
Halloween in Big Bear Village
October 31, Big Bear Lake
Bring your kids to the safest place to Trick-or-Treat this Halloween. The Village and the City of Big Bear Lake are sponsoring Halloween in the Village, with store-to-store trick-or-treating, spooks, and family fun. The dog costume contest will be held from 4-4:30 PM at the Copper Q, located at 645 Pine Knot Blvd.