It’s autumn, which means it’s time to dress your dog like a superhero and take him to socialize in the kind of weather he likes best. Here are some upcoming events for you and your pooch in Northern Virginia.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Barktoberfest
Loudoun County Fairgrounds, Leesburg
This popular festival is the signature event of the Friends of Homeless Animals. Bring your dog and kids for a day of music, costumes, wine tasting, and games. Join the Mutt Strut to raise money for FOHA’s mission to rescue homeless animals.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Wine. Wag. Walk.
Quattro Goomba’s winery in Aldie
Support the Homeless Animals Rescue Team (HART) with this walk through a winery. The event includes live music, contests, agility demos, and the wines of Quattro Goomba.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5
HernDOG Bark Bash
Bready Park, 814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon, VA 20170
Herndon’s first annual Bark Bash will offer doggie demonstrations, an adoption event, and an off-leash area. A variety of dog-themed vendors will be available. Entry is free.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5
Paws for a Cause 3K Walk
Weber’s Pet Supermarket, 11021 Lee Hwy, Fairfax, VA 22030
Walk with your dog in this 3K that supports Fairfax Pets on Wheels, an organization that provides pet visitation to residents of nursing homes and hospitals.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18
K-9 Krawl 5K
Fairfax County Government Center (parking lot C)
The Fairfax County police department hosts this annual 5K to bring awareness of the connection between animal cruelty and domestic violence. Bring your canine walking buddy to honor and remember those that have been affected by domestic violence.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19
Howl-o-ween Hayride at Puptoberfest
Lowlands Farm, 21344 Steptoe Hill Road, Middleburg, VA 20117
Take a hayride with your pooch around a farm, and then have a fall photo taken of you together. You and your dog can also try an agility course with a trainer, or relax with homemade cider and Halloween treats.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
Grreat 3K Walk
Weber’s Pet Supermarket, 11021 Lee Highway, Fairfax
Bring your canine fitness buddy for this fundraiser to support Golden Retriever Rescue, Education, and Training (GRREAT). Refreshments for dogs and humans will be served during the event.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31
Howl-o-ween at Lake Anne Plaza
Lake Anne Plaza, Reston
Dress yourself and your pet in your finest costumes, and spend Halloween night at Yappy Hour on the Plaza. Enter the free costume contests and games for pets and adults. Dogs, cats, and other furry friends are welcome.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
Home 4 the Holidays
Reston Town Center
Don’t miss this great adoption event and festival. Around 40 dog rescue organizations will be there with adoptable dogs. There will also be exhibitions, interactive activities, and a visit from Santa Paws. Come support these rescue groups, and perhaps you’ll also find your next best friend.
Did we miss any great dog events in the area?
What is your dog going to be for Halloween this year? Send us pictures, please!