Fall is approaching, so it’s time to take your dog to the water park and get his Yoda costume ready. If you love your pooch, there’s tons for the two of you to do together this fall. Here are the upcoming dog events in Reston and the surrounding areas of Northern Virginia.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2016
Dog Day at Nova Parks Waterparks
10am-2pm: Nova Parks waterparks, throughout Northern Virginia
Dogs are invited to swim in the pools at the following waterparks. Each dog must be supervised by an adult. $5 per dog. Participating water parks are Atlantis Waterpark (Centreville), Great Waves Waterpark (Alexandria), Ocean Dunes Waterpark (Arlington), and Pirates Cove Waterpark (Lorton). The dog event at Volcano Island has been canceled.
Loudoun Pet Expo
10am-3pm: Franklin Park, 17501 Franklin Park Dr, Purcellville
This celebration will include a dog swim, a 5K walk, a petting zoo, demos, face painting, food, drinks, and vendors. FREE.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2016
Dog Daze at the Water Mine
1-4pm: The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, Lake Fairfax Park, Reston
For the first time ever, this water park will be open for dogs to swim in the lazy river. No human swimming is permitted, and each dog must be supervised by an adult. $5.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2016
Dog Days of Summer
4-7pm: Reston Town Center Pavilion, Reston
On Wednesday evenings in September, the Pavilion turns into a dog park with toys, treats, wading pools, and giveaways. FREE.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2016
DogFest Walk ‘n Roll
10am-1pm: Pentagon Row, 1101 S Joyce Street, Arlington
This dog festival and walk supports Canine Companions for Independence, and includes live music, Zumba, contests, and an agility course.
Wine. Wag. Walk.
12-4pm: Quattro Goomba winery, 22860 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie
Support the Homeless Animals Rescue Team (HART) with this walk through a winery. The event includes live music, contests, demos, and the wines of Quattro Goomba. Register online.
Chesapeake Dock Dogs Demonstration
1-4pm: Lake Anne Plaza, Reston
World champion dogs from the Chesapeake Dock Diving Dog Club will dazzle spectators once again with their leaps and jumps into the lake. Dog treat samples and raffles will be available. FREE.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2016
Dog Days of Summer
4-7pm: Reston Town Center Pavilion, Reston
On Wednesday evenings inSeptember, the Pavilion turns into a dog park with toys, treats, wading pools, and giveaways. FREE.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2016
Barktoberfest and GlowDOGGlow 5K
10:30am-5:30pm: Loudoun County Fairgrounds, 17558 Dry Mill Road, 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. At night, join the GlowDOGGlow Walk and Race. Register online for the one-mile or 5K event.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016
Dog Days of Summer
4-7pm: Reston Town Center Pavilion, Reston
On Wednesday evenings in September, the Pavilion turns into a dog park with toys, treats, wading pools, and giveaways. FREE.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016
HernDOG Bark Bash
12pm: Bready Park, 814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon, VA 20170
Herndon’s 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.
Paws for a Cause 3K Walk
12pm: Weber’s Pet Supermarket, 11021 Lee Hwy, Fairfax
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. Register online.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2016
K-9 Krawl
8:30am: Fairfax County Government Center, Fairfax
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.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016
Grreat 3K Walk
10am: 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. Register online.
HOWL-O-WEEN on Lake Anne Plaza
1-3pm: Lake Anne Plaza, Reston
Dress yourself and your pet in your finest costumes, and celebrate Halloween 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. FREE.
Howling Halloween Dog Costume Contest
4pm: Reston Town Center Pavilion, Reston
Dress up your dog for Reston Town Center’s first annual dog costume contest. Judges will award the most creative costume, the best owner/dog duo costume, and the best DIY costume. FREE, but registration is required.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016
Halloween Pet Parade
4-4:45pm: Great Falls Village Centre Green, Great Falls
Bring your pet on a leash dressed up in its favorite costume. Parade begins at the East Parking Lot near Grandmother’s Back Room. Judging at 4:30, with prizes for special categories. Pets must be cleared from the area by 4:50pm. FREE.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2016
Home 4 the Holidays
11am-4pm: Reston Town Center, Reston
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.
Photography by Charlotte Geary
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