With summer in full swing, pup-friendly festivals are popping up across California. Lucky dogs can join their people for incredible winery events, block parties, baseball games, beach gatherings, and more. The best part? Most of these events benefit adoption, rescue, and animal welfare groups.
We’ve dug up details on the Golden State’s most exciting summer and fall fundraisers. Check out these seasonal events to connect with other dog lovers and support the organizations who work hard to care for dogs in need. Remember, you can always find events in your local area at DogTrekker.com/events.
Puptopia
July 26, Big Bear Lake
Head out to the Big Bear Puptopia Festival for a tail-wagging day of fun. Play on the Pawground and relax in the K9 Lounge. Watch stunt shows on the main stage. Pamper your pup at the Spaw or test agility in the Pupformance Zone. Shop for treats at a marketplace with pup-focused vendors. Don’t miss this ultimate dog-friendly event!
Bark & Meow Around the Block
August 23, Berkeley
Berkeley Humane‘s largest annual adopt-a-thon and family-friendly street fair, Bark & Meow Around the Block, returns to 2700 Ninth St. Berkeley in August. The free, outdoor event features hundreds of adoptable animals from Bay Area shelters and rescues. You’ll also find live music, food and beer, pet vendors, related retailers, and much more.
Wag, Wine & Dine
August 24, Napa
Join Waggin’ Trails Rescue for a delightful afternoon of Wag, Wine & Dine events. Spoil your pup with a day of indulgence while you savor delicious bites and wine at Meritage Resort & Spa. You’ll also be treated to affordable entertainment — and your fundraiser participation will help save the lives of countless animals!
Pawsh Retreat
August 24, Santa Cruz
Chaminade Resort & Spa welcomes people and pups to its dog-friendly property for an afternoon of play, treats, and pet-worthy pampering. Look for photo booths, pet portraits with dog photographers, a fashion show competition, pet massage, dog pools, an agility course, Santa Cruz pet adoption and rescue services, and more.
Wild Blue Dogs Fall Camp
September 14–20, South Lake Tahoe
Grab one of the few remaining spots for Wild Blue Dogs Fall Camp on the shores of beautiful Lake Tahoe! Camp activities include agility exercises, guided hikes on scenic trails, kayak and paddleboarding outings, nosework sessions, and more. “Overall, this is one of the most fun and positive experiences I have had in years,” raves one past camper.
Bark in the Park
September 20, San Jose
Bark in the Park returns to downtown San Jose’s William Street Park in September. Bark is among the largest dog festivals in the United States, and it promises fun for the entire family — especially pups. Participate in contests throughout the day, chat with vendors offering dog-specific goods and services, sample delicious food and drink, and enjoy much more.
Dog Days at Oracle Park
September 27, San Francisco
Bring your pup to Oracle Park for a fantastic day with the SF SPCA, as the Giants take on the Colorado Rockies. Enjoy a costume contest, on-field parade, and other tail-wagging good times. Partial proceeds support the SF SPCA’s life-saving work. Dogs are welcome in designated Dog Days sections with a special ticket purchase.
DogFest Bay Area
October 18, San Francisco
Don’t miss DogFest Bay Area 2025, a milestone event celebrating 50 incredible years of Canine Companions. Have fun while honoring the group’s deep commitment to the mission of providing expertly trained service dogs to individuals with disabilities — all free of charge. DogFest is a family-friendly, pet-friendly event that’s open to everyone! There is no fee to register.
Fall SoCal Corgi Beach Day
October 25, Huntington Beach — New location for 2025!
Corgi Beach Day 2025 fetches a bigger, better home just two blocks south of Huntington Beach Pier. More than 3,000 all-day spots ($15) end parking woes, and events are steps from Pacific City and local hotels, shops, and restaurants. Expect nonstop cuteness with a costume parade and tail-wagging contests — loudest bark, corgi limbo, fetch finals, best booty, watermelon-eating, and more — plus a vendor village and adoption booths.
Tips for attending dog events
Heading to a dog-friendly festival or fundraiser? A little planning makes the day better for everyone. Make sure your dog is current on vaccinations, since large gatherings mean close contact with many other dogs. Bring a portable water bowl and a small shade canopy if the event is outdoors — even mild California weather can get warm by midday. Keep your dog leashed unless the event specifically allows off-leash play, and watch for signs of overstimulation like excessive panting, tucked tails, or avoidance behavior. If your pup needs a break, step away to a quieter spot for a few minutes. Most importantly, pack plenty of waste bags and clean up after your dog — it keeps these events welcoming for everyone.
