Pinafore Park turns into one giant dog park this Saturday for the Pawsitively Elgin Dog Festival, and the whole family, four legged and two legged, is invited.
The festival runs from 10am to 4pm at 95 Elm Street, the same lakeside grounds that host the Father’s Day Car Show and the Railway City Music and Arts Festival each year. Admission is $10 a person, and kids 12 and under get in free.
This is not just a day of belly rubs. Since 2017, a small team of volunteers has run the festival to shine a light on dog adoption and animal rescue. Starting last year, all the profits go to Helping Paws Rescue, a no kill rescue group, with extra gifts set aside for the St. Thomas Animal Shelter.
Expect scent dog demonstrations, a lure course, try out agility training, a kid’s treasure hunt, free bingo, live stage shows, food and ice cream, and a live auction on the main stage. There is also a VIP tent, limited to 125 memberships, for anyone who wants a quieter spot to watch the day unfold.
One thing to plan around: the forecast is calling for a heavy thunderstorm on Saturday, with an 85 percent chance of rain. Bring a rain jacket or an umbrella just in case, and check the festival’s page before you head out if the weather turns.
Whether you have a dog at home or just like being around a park full of wagging tails, Saturday is built for you.
Sources: Pawsitively Elgin Dog Festival
Edited by Anthony Zruna · About the LocVox Newsroom