Dogs, Costumes and 20-Plus Rescues: Paws in the Park Returns to Alexandria Sunday
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Old Town’s waterfront is about to go to the dogs — in the very best way. The free Paws in the Park festival returns to Oronoco Bay Park on Sunday, Oct. 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., bringing adoptable animals, live entertainment, shopping and some very creative pet costumes to the Potomac River shoreline.
This year’s celebration carries extra meaning: the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is marking 80 years of helping animals and the people who love them. The organization says the event will feature its largest Rescue Row yet, with more than 20 animal rescue and welfare organizations taking part. Many will bring adoptable animals for visitors to meet.
Come for the Dogs. Stay for the Music.
The day includes local artisans, pet-oriented businesses, nonprofit exhibitors, food trucks and other food and beverage vendors. Families can stop by the Family Fun Tent for crafts, games and activities for children of all ages.
The main-stage schedule begins with music and opening remarks at 11 a.m. The Symphony Orchestra of Northern Virginia performs at 11:30 a.m., followed later by Katie & Logan at 2:45 p.m. Children 8 and younger can enjoy an interactive music-and-movement session with Katie of Accelerando Music from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. in the Family Fun Tent.
Will Your Pet Win Best in Show?
One of the day’s most photogenic attractions is the Pet Costume Contest, scheduled for approximately 1:30 p.m. Prizes will recognize the spookiest, funniest and most creative outfits, with a Best in Show winner chosen from those categories.
Contest registration is a $25 donation to the AWLA. Organizers recommend registering ahead, although on-site entries will be accepted until 12:30 p.m. if space remains. Participants should check in at the main stage by 1:15 p.m. Even pets without a costume can join in: the organizers plan to have costumes available on site.
Find a New Best Friend
Rescue Row will give visitors a chance to meet animals and talk directly with rescue organizations about adoption and responsible pet care. The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is also bringing adoptable dogs and says its own dogs adopted at the event can go home with no adoption fee and starter supplies. Its five-day Adoption Audition trial option will be available there, too; that offer applies to the shelter’s event adoptions or trials, not necessarily to every rescue at the festival.
The first 1,000 festival attendees will receive sponsor swag bags, and a silent auction is already open for bidding through event day. Proceeds support the AWLA’s work serving animals and families in Alexandria.
Well-behaved pets are welcome, but they must be comfortable around crowds and other animals. Organizers require non-retractable leashes no longer than six feet, or suitable equipment for other species.
If You Go
What: Paws in the Park 2026
When: Sunday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Where: Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St., Alexandria
Admission: Free; costume contest registration is a $25 donation
Pets: Well-behaved, leashed pets welcome; no retractable leashes
Details: PawsInTheParkVA.com
Reminder: Text PAWS to 833-360-5466.
