With summer just around the corner, we’ve curated a list of some of our favorite local fido-friendly festivals and events. So, pack your bags and hit the open road; adventure awaits!

Dog friendly events in the Southeast

Summer 2019 Event Locations

Puppy with baseball glove

Dog Day at the Rays

Where: Saint Petersburg, FL

When: June 15th, 2019

What: “Take your pup to the ball game, take your pup out with the crowd, pack them some Evolve treats and yummy snacks…” For $30 you and your baseball-loving doggo can cheer on Florida’s MLB team, the Tampa Bay Rays.

Pup running

Georgia Dachshund Races

Where: Lawrenceville, GA

When: June 15th, 2019

What: Celebrating Dachshunds of all lengths and ages, this event is one that will keep you laughing. Judges will select the winners for 2019’s Dachshund Contests in the categories of: smallest, longest, oldest, best coat, best costume, and more. A talent show as well as doggie weddings will be held throughout the day.


Yappy Hour

Where: Gadsden, AL

When: July 3rd, 2019

What: Head to Back Forty Beer Company for a dog friendly happy hour. Come thirsty, and bring a donation for the Humane Society. Back Forty Beer Co.’s Yappy Hours are a great way to meet neighbors and plan future pup play dates.

Henersonville, NC

Tails in Town & Strut Your Mutt 5k

Where: Hendersonville, NC

When: July 27th, 2019

What: Dubbed a ‘dog’s dream day,’ this festival is a family and dog friendly event that brings dog lovers from across the region to the quaint and friendly town of Hendersonville, NC. With over 50 vendors and a plethora of beer, giveaways, and tasty food, we can’t wait to see you there!

Nashville, TN

Tomato Art Festival

Where: Nashville, TN  

When: August 9-10, 2019

What: For over 15 years, this spunky East Nashville Festival has brought the town together in celebration of local art, music, food, and community. Whether it be the 5k or the Bloody Mary Garden Party, there is something here to suit your fancy. So leash up your pup and start planning your trip to Nashville, TN for this year’s Tomato Festival.

Pup getting a bath

Tails & Ales

Where: Fort Mill, SC

When: August 24th, 2019

What: What better way to celebrate National Dog Day weekend than by romping around a 12-acre dog park and meeting some new friends?! Adoptable dogs will be available on site, and for a $15 donation, dogs can be washed, towel dried, and given a new bandana.

Dog Park

Bark Bash

Where: Smyrna, TN

When: September 28th, 2019

What: Pooch Parade, food trucks, and a doggie costume contest?! Where do we sign up? Just outside of Nashville, TN, this dog-centric celebration is one you won’t want to miss. Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Local animal rescues will be showing off their cutest, most adoptable pups at this event.



For more ways to unleash your pet’s full potential, be sure to follow Evolve’s Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages!