You’ll Fall For This Season’s Dog-friendly Events

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.

A golden retriever basks in the warm glow of love as it relishes shared moments of affection between two individuals under the open sky at an event called Goldie Palooza, a must-visit extravaganza for dog-lovers seeking fun-filled activities to enjoy with their pets. - Dogtrekker

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!

Three corgis sit on cushioned chairs around a fire pit by the beach. One corgi wears goggles. In the background are greenery, the ocean, and a palm tree. The text at the bottom reads "Pismo Beach Corgi Getaway.

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.

A purple event flyer showcases a dog wearing a purple scarf. The text reads: "Bark and Meow Around the Block - Adopt-a-thon and Street Fair, hosted by Berkeley Humane. Saturday, September 7, from 10 AM to 4 PM at 2700 9th St, Berkeley. Join us for fall festivities! Sponsored by Berkeley Humane and Clear the Shelters.

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.

Celebrate Milo's 30th Anniversary on Saturday, September 14 from 12 to 4 PM. The announcement is designed with bold, colorful text on a white background accented by abstract blue shapes. Join for one of the key fall events perfect for dog lovers.

Milo Foundation’s 30^th 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.

A group of people and their dogs hike through a rocky trail in a forested area. Large boulders and tall trees surround them. They take in the scenic view of South Lake Tahoe's lake and mountains under a clear sky, enjoying the fall season. — Photo by Wild Blue Dogs.

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.

A crowd of people sits on white chairs arranged outdoors, all facing a stage with a banner titled "Festival Bethesda." Colorful umbrellas provide shade as the audience enjoys the summer weather. Trees stand in the background, and a dog on a leash is visible in the foreground.

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.

Four Akitas in superhero costumes sit on a paved area outdoors. Behind them, a green banner with white text and paw prints adds visual interest. Nearby tables display items, and a grassy area completes the scene for this summer event ideal for dog owners.

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.

A white flag with a picture of a corgi and the words "So Cal Corgi Nation" waves against a blue sky. On the right side, bold white text announces "Corgi Beach Day" set for October 28th, 2023. This event is highlighted as one of the top activities to enjoy with your dog this fall season.

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.