Alexandria Goes To The Dogs For Paws In The Park 2023

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Alexandria will go to the dogs for the biggest animal paw-ty of the year. Paws in the Park, an event to benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, will be held Sunday, Oct. 15 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Oronoco Bay Park.

Leashed dogs and their humans are invited to Paws in the Park for a day full of vendors, adoptable animals, and a variety of entertainment. The first 1,000 attendees will receive a unique swag bag. The event is sponsored by Amazon.

"At the AWLA, we celebrate the love that our community has for animals each and every day, but Paws in the Park is one of our favorite ways to connect with that community, meet a lot of amazing animals, and raise awareness and funds for Alexandria’s animals," said Stella Hanly, executive director of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.

There will be a variety of vendors to browse, from pet-related businesses to animal-themed decor, fine art and photography. See a full list of vendors here.

If you don't yet have a furry friend, there will be a Rescue Row with at least 10 animal welfare organizations and rescues offering adoptable animals to meet.

Attendees can enjoy food and beverage vendors or pack a picnic. There will be items for purchase from local cideries, breweries, wineries, bakeries, food trucks, and more.

On the entertainment side sponsored by the Alexandria Library Foundation, live performances will start at 11:30 p.m. Musical favorites will return like Uno Dos Tres Andres and the new Dog (and Human) Costume Contest. The costume contest is open to everyone, but pre-registration is required. Category winners will receive a prize.

More entertainment can be found at the Family Fun Tent and AWLA Tent. The Family Fun Tent, sponsored by TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, will have children's arts and crafts for all ages, including decorating pet bandanas and collaborating on a pet-themed community “mural.” The AWLA Tent will have 2024 AWLA calendars to purchase and items for a silent auction. The silent auction items will be available online as well, and winners do not need to be present to win.

Proceeds from Paws in the Park benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, which runs the city's animal shelter and helps animals and pet owners throughout the community. For more information about the event, visit PawsintheParkVA.com.