2022 Dogtoberfest — A pooch from last year’s Dogtoberfest who won the “James Bond” award. (United Way of West Alabama)

Dog lovers rejoice! United Way of West Alabama is planning to host its second annual Dogtoberfest in Tuscaloosa. The long-awaited event will take place October 8 at Capitol Park. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Dogtoberfest? The cause, events + prizes

Capitol Park is the location of this year’s Doctoberfest. (Grace Brindley / The Bama Buzz)

According to United Way, Dogtoberfest fundraises for local animal shelters and rescue groups. The family-friendly event includes a pop up concert from the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra, face painting, and even paw readings (where owners can have their pooch’s future read!).

“This is our United Way’s Reunited Retirees Affinity Group’s second annual Doctoberfest, and it’s a great outdoor fun activity for our community and their pets.”
— Emily Bryant, Director of Allocations and Community Parnterships at United Way of West Alabama

Dogs and their owners can earn fun accolades at Dogtoberfest. Here are some of the costume awards you and your pet could win.

The Barkus Award (MVP)
Best Pup/Parent Look Alike Team
Most School Spirit
Best HOWL-o-weenie Costume
Rookie of the Year (Puppy)
Mr/Miss Manners
Mr/Miss Congeniality

Following the parade, pet blessings will be held at Christ Episcopal Church.

Dogtoberfest schedule

Doctoberfest 2022 — Last year’s Dogtoberfest parade. (United Way of West Alabama)

Here’s when you can catch all the Dogtoberfest events on Sunday, October 8.

1:30PM Registration and Fun in the Park
2:30PM Parade of Pets
2:45PM Costume Contests
3:15PM Pet Blessings

Sponsors and pawtners of Dogtoberfest

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Dogtoberfest is a true community event, with local Tuscaloosa businesses sponsoring and playing active roles in the event. The Shirt Shop, River Fall Credit Union, Compassion Pet Care, Alberta Vetenary Clinic and Petsense by Tractor Supply are all performing different roles for the event. For example, The Shirt Shop is Dogtoberfest’s wag wear sponsor! Additional “Pawtners” are listed below.