By Dan Roth
Alexandria, VA – For dog lovers, the best weekends are the ones spent with their pups. But finding an event that genuinely welcomes and celebrates dogs can be challenging.
That’s what makes Del Ray Dog Fest so special—it’s not just dog-friendly, it’s dog-focused.
On Sunday, April 6th, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the third annual Del Ray Dog Fest returns to the George Washington Middle School parking lot, promising the perfect day date for you and your dog. With tail-wagging activities, live music, local vendors, food trucks and plenty of treats (for both humans and pups), this year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet.
“Del Ray Dog Fest is designed entirely with you and your dog in mind,” said Del Ray Dog Fest chair Jenna Gotch, who is also owner of Passionately Pets. “Every activity, every vendor and every moment of Dog Fest is an opportunity to create a special memory with your best friend.”
This year’s event supports Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats, an Alexandria-based nonprofit that provides meaningful employment and job training for adults with disabilities while baking delicious, all-natural dog treats.
Must-Attend Activities for You & Your Pup:
Pups & Poses: Yoga in Del Ray will host a specialized yoga class for dogs and their humans– giving a new meaning to downward dog.
Fashion Show & Photo Booth: Show off your pup’s best look on the runway and compete for the title of Best Dressed. Afterward, capture the moment at the Alexandria Toyota Photo Booth.
Luring Course: Let your dog tap into their natural instincts with this exciting “mock hunt” challenge that tests speed, agility, and endurance.
Distracted Dog Race: Do you think your dog can stay focused? In this fun challenge hosted by Passionately Pets, navigate a course filled with tempting distractions—from squeaky toys to stinky treats.
Rescue Row: Meet adorable adoptable dogs and learn about fostering and volunteer opportunities with local animal rescues and nonprofits.
Kids’ Zone: This event is fun for the whole family! Kids can participate in multiple activities, including crafts, face painting and plenty of games.
Live Music & Off-Leash Play: Grab a bite from one of the food trucks, enjoy live music from Rook Richards, and let your pup burn off some energy in the Off-Leash Puppy Playground.
Yappy Hour (3–6 p.m.): Keep the fun going after the event! Head to select Del Ray restaurants offering food & drink specials for both humans and pups.
Hosted by the Del Ray Business Association and presented by The Peele Group, Del Ray Dog Fest is your chance to create unforgettable memories with your four-legged best friend.
For tickets and more information, visit www.visitdelray.com and follow @delray_dogfest.
ICYMI: Riders Bond with Horses at Local Therapeutic Riding Center
