Del Ray Dog Fest 2026: Alexandria’s Favorite Dog Festival Returns April 12
Alexandria, VA – One of Del Ray’s favorite spring traditions is back: the 4th Annual Del Ray Dog Fest takes place Sunday, April 12, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the George Washington Middle School Parking Lot (1005 Mount Vernon Ave). Whether you’re a dog owner, dog lover, or just looking for a fun day outdoors, this beloved community festival organized by the Del Ray Business Association promises a paw-some time for pups and their humans alike. Tickets are available now at delraydogfest2026.eventbrite.com.
Start the Day Calm with Pups n Poses
Festival-goers looking for a relaxing start can join Pups n Poses hosted by Yoga in Del Ray, starting at 10 a.m. This outdoor dog-friendly yoga class is the perfect way to stretch, breathe, and bond with your pup before the festival festivities begin. Bring your dog on a leash, your yoga mat, and your flexible soul — instructors provide guidance, music, and a calming atmosphere.
Free Swag for Early Attendees
The first festival-goers will score special giveaways while supplies last, including stylish bandanas sponsored by Livewell Animal Hospital and convenient bag dispensers from Posh Pets.
Photo Fun and Puppy Kisses
Make memories that last a lifetime at the Photo Booth sponsored by Alexandria Toyota. Strike a pose, grab a prop, and snap a paw-fect picture with your pup. For a little extra cuteness, stop by the Kissing Booth hosted by the Alexandria Police Foundation. Your furry friend can dish out smooches, mug a photo-worthy moment, and spread some love while supporting the Foundation’s Caring for K9s program.
Food, Drink, and Live Entertainment
No festival is complete without food and drink! A selection of delicious eats will be available from local food trucks, and attendees can enjoy beer from Port City Brewing. Keep the energy high with tunes from Rook Richards, returning to provide the perfect soundtrack for a day of dog-friendly fun. Thanks to The Peele Group for sponsoring the Stage and Entertainment.
Fashion, Fun, and New Games
Show off your pup’s best look at the Fashion Show, emceed by Joey Schaljo, announcer for the Washington Mystics. Meet at the main stage at 12:30 p.m. for a 1 p.m. start — all pups are welcome to strut their stuff! Immediately following, join in on the festival’s brand-new game, Sit Happens!, a doggy twist on musical chairs. Any pup can participate: when the music stops, the last dog to sit is out, with the final pup crowned the winner.
Relax, Play, and Get Creative
Take a break at Tails & Tales, hosted by the Friends of Duncan Library, where you and your pup can relax and enjoy a good book. Other old favorites return, including the Luring Course, the Distracted Dog Race hosted by Passionately Pets, and the Off-Leash Puppy Playground. Families will love showing their creativity at Pup Picasso Plaza, chasing dog-safe bubbles at Bark & Bubbles, or getting their face painted.
Treats, Challenges, and Local Vendors
Pups can enjoy custom creations at the Pup Cup Sundae Bar hosted by Livewell Animal Hospital, or test their owner’s skills at the Top Dog Toss challenge from Snout & Paw Petcare, where precision and fun go hand-in-paw. Don’t forget to visit the many dog-related vendors, supporting local small businesses while discovering unique products and services for your furry friends.
And that’s not all — there’s even more interactive fun in store for attendees, making this year’s festival bigger and better than ever! From tail-wagging races to interactive games, art, music, and treats, Del Ray Dog Fest 2026 promises something for everyone. Tickets are available now — don’t miss a single moment of the community’s favorite canine celebration.
Paws Up for a Good Cause
This year’s Del Ray Dog Fest benefits the Alexandria Police Foundation’s Caring for K9s Program, which provides essential healthcare for retired K9s that served the Alexandria community. Learn more about their amazing mission at alexandriapolicefoundation.org/caring-for-k9.
Get your tickets at delraydogfest2026.eventbrite.com and follow @delray_dogfest and @visitdelray for the latest information.
