It’s spring festival season, and dogs don’t have to be left out. Here are options for the best day ever with your furry friend, from a visit to the botanical gardens to a dog day at the ballpark.
Pitchside Pups at Audi Field
May 2, 8 p.m.
Dogs are welcome for a special outing at Audi Field to watch the Washington Spirit take on the Angel City FC. There will be activities and experiences for what the Spirit are calling the VIP (Very Important Pup) in your life. 100 Potomac Ave. SW, Washington, DC, $35
Village at Leesburg Pet Festival
May 3, noon-4 p.m.
Bring your dog out for an afternoon of fun at the Village of Leesburg’s Pet Festival. There will be pet exhibitors, rescue adoptions, a luring course, and caricaturist. From 2 to 3 p.m., there will be a “Leesburg’s Got Talent Pet Edition” contest. The first 300 guests to stop at the Village at Leesburg tent get a free branded pet item. 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg, free
The Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf
May 3, 2-5 p.m.
The Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf has become quite the event in recent years. Dubbed a “fur-filled” spectacular, expect to see an all-breed costume contest, adoptable pet parade, and of course the running of over 150 Chihuahuas. They’ll race in groups of eight on a 60-foot racetrack. Race proceeds benefit Rural Dog Rescue. 35 Sutton Sq. SW, Washington, DC, free
All Dogs Frolick After Dark
June 6, 7-9 p.m.
Tire your pup out on a Friday night at Frolick Dogs, an Alexandria canine sports club. Staff will be on hand to show you how to work with your canine best buddy on their agility course. There will also be opportunities to try doggie treadmills and balance equipment. 3208 Colvin St., Alexandria, $15
Woofie’s Paws in the Park Adoption Event
June 8, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Woofie’s, a company that offers pet sitting, dog walking, and mobile grooming, is hosting a “Paws in the Park” event at Frying Pan Farm Park. There will be adoptable pets, free nail trims, a pet fashion show, and even a food truck just for dogs. 2709 West Ox Rd., Herndon, free
Pup Days at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Take your best furry friend to Meadowlark Botanical Gardens’ Pup Days, where visitors are welcome to bring one dog per person to enjoy a stroll around the gardens. Dogs must be on leashes at all times (no longer than 6 feet); loaner leashes are available at the admissions desk. 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct., Vienna, $4–$8 per person, plus $6 per dog, free for garden members and children 5 and under
Bring Your Dog to Mount Vernon
Many don’t know that dogs are welcome to explore George Washington’s Mount Vernon. They must be always leashed, and humans are responsible for picking up their waste (Mount Vernon does not provide bags) and bringing treats and water. Water bowls are available at the main gate and the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center. Tricorn hats or other historical-themed dog costumes are encouraged! Dogs are welcome in the gardens, the farm, and along the Potomac River. 3200 Mt. Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, $15–$28
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
