Reviewed by: Sarah Gronberg
Tuscaloosa’s second Dogtoberfest to happen again this year
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
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
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
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.
- Jen Ladnier & Traci Mitchell
- Julie Mann
- Amy Trice
- Bark Box
- Buffalo Rock
- Pet Smart
- TuscaBlue
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