If you’re a dog person, then there’s only one place to be this weekend: the Humane Society of Missouri’s 28th Annual Bark in the Park, a fundraiser for the nonprofit’s Animal Cruelty Fund, on Saturday, May 20, from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Here’s what to know before you go.
A New Venue
Stay up-to-date with the local arts scene
Subscribe to the weekly St. Louis Arts+Culture newsletter to discover must-attend art exhibits, performances, festivals, and more.
This year, the festival has a new home. “We are in Tower Grove Park this year,” says Shana Cook, director of events for the Humane Society of Missouri. “We could not be more excited. Tower Grove Park is such a dog-friendly, beautiful park, so we think it’s going to be very popular.”
Animals & Activities
While the venue has changed, much of the programming will remain similar to previous years. The 1-mile walk with pets starts at 10 a.m.; register online by this Thursday, May 18, at 3 p.m. You can also register for the 5K up until the race starts at 9 a.m.
For feats of athleticism of the canine variety, the Purina Incredible Dog Team will be on hand. And there will be other types of animals as well. “We have our Barn Buddies from Longmeadow Rescue Ranch. They are permanent residents of our ranch in Union, Missouri,” says Cook. “We will have a handful onsite that attendees can interact with.” (The final roll call for the menagerie hasn’t been finalized just yet so no promises, but possible pals include horses, goats, birds, alpacas, and miniature horses.)
The Humane Education Team will host activities for both kids and dogs, including an immersive experience in which kids can earn a badge while serving as junior animal cruelty task force officers and saving some stuffed animals in distress, whisking them off for veterinary care and a ride on the task force’s truck.
There will also be food trucks and a beer garden, featuring Urban Chestnut Brewing Company and Tito’s Vodka. Tower Grove Farmer’s Market will be taking place just across the street, so Cook expects folks to move between the events.
Adoptions & Auctions
Real animals will also be available for adoptions. “We will have adoptable pets at Bark in the Park,” says Cook. “If attendees are looking to bring home a furry friend, they can do that.”
A silent auction will also feature more than 100 items, with proceeds benefiting the Animal Cruelty Task Force.
Registration & (No) Retractable Leashes
Event registration is $35 and includes a Purina goodie bag and official event T-shirt.
If you’re bringing Fido or Spot, leave retractable leashes at home, and make sure everyone’s up to date on their shots.
