The following bi-weekly column is written and sponsored by Bark + Boarding, which provides a heart-centered and safe environment for your pets. Conveniently located at 5818-C Seminary Road in Bailey’s Crossroads, Bark & Boarding offers doggy daycare, boarding, grooming, walking and training services, plus in-home pet care.
Spring is here, and that means it’s time to get outside and enjoy the warm weather. We’ve rounded up some of the best local events that are dog-friendly, so you and your furry pal can make the most of the season.
Easter Eggstravaganza
April 20, 12-3 p.m.
Cost: $5/family
1601 Nicodemus Road
Reisterstown, Maryland 21136
Your pup doesn’t have to miss out on all the Easter fun! Celebrate with a traditional egg hunt, and get your picture with the Easter bunny. If you’re hungry, Flash Crab’s food truck will be there with tasty food to purchase. The event is hosted by the Baltimore Humane Society.
Pooch Palooza
April 27 at 9-4 p.m. and April 28 11-4 p.m.
Cost: $12 for single day ticket, $20 for weekend pass, $2 per add-on dog
8428 Stephen Decatur Highway
Berlin, Maryland 21811
Give your dog the time of their life as they get to participate in a day full of fun designed just for them! Events include lure chasing, pie eating, the Fast Fetch Cup and Qualifier, and the Helio ball drop. There is also a costume contest and canine photobooth. Owners will have plenty to do as well — the event includes seminars to help you learn how to be an even better dog owner.
Pups in the Park
April 27 at 4:05 p.m. and May 26 at 1:35 p.m.
Cost: $33 for humans and $10 for dogs
Nationals Park, 1500 S Capitol Street SE
Washington, D.C. 20003
Nothing says spring like going to a baseball game! On select nights, you can bring your dog with you to enjoy a Nationals game from the pet-friendly outfield reserved section in the ballpark. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Humane Rescue Alliance.
Paws in the Park
April 28, 12-4 p.m.
Cost: $15 ahead of time; $25 at the gate. Children 12 and under are free
Bohrer Park at Summit Hill Farm, 506 South Frederick Avenue
Gaithersburg, Maryland
Take part in one of the largest dog walks in the area, and help support homeless and abandoned animals by attending this annual event hosted by the Montgomery County Humane Society. Celebrating its 21st year, the festival includes kids activities, music, food, a silent auction and a 1-mile dog walk at 2 p.m. Be sure to bring your A game, as there will be contests including best stay, best dressed, dog/owner lookalike, best trick and more!
Pigs, Pugs & Pinot
April 28, 3-5 p.m.
Cost: $25
Tyber Creek Wine Bar & Kitchen, 84 T Street Northwest
Washington, D.C. 20001
Relax and enjoy a glass of wine while you and your pup mingle at the Tyber Creek Wine Bar. Tickets include one glass of wine, snacks and goodies for your dog. Still not convinced? There will be a special guest: Charlotte the potbelly pig from Life with Pigs Farm Animal Sanctuary! A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Life with Pigs, as well as a pug rescue in need.
Pet Fiesta
May 4, 10-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Reston Town Center, 11900 Market Street
Reston, Virginia 20190
Bring the whole family to this exciting event! Kids can enjoy face painting, on-stage entertainment and caricature artists and your pooch will love the Tails on Trails dog walk at the start of the festival. You can meet homeless animals looking to be adopted, and learn about the newest pet products by talking with dozens of vendors. The event is hosted by GoodDogz.org.
K9s in the Vines
May 5, 1-4 p.m.
Cost: $20 ahead of time; $25 at the gate. Children under 12 are free
13601 Glissans Mill Road
Mount Airy, Maryland 21771
The only thing that can make a spring afternoon better is a glass of wine, and this event allows you to do just that, with your dog by your side! Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting, music, games, raffles and more. Proceeds from ticket sales support the Animal Welfare League of Frederickson, a no-kill, non-profit, cat and dog rescue.
Day of the Dog
May 11, 10-3 p.m.
Cost: Free
1801 E. Street. SE
Washington, D.C. 20003
The historic Congressional Cemetery is the final resting place of many famous and influential people, and the 65 acres doubles as a dog-walking park. Usually, dog owners must pay to use the park, with fees going to help maintain the cemetery, but one day each year, the park is free to everyone. Day of the Dog is a celebration of all things dog, and includes contests, raffles, games, demonstrations and more!
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