By Erin Shackelford
Paws in the Park returns to Oronoco Bay Park in Old Town on Oct. 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is guaranteed to be even bigger and better than years past. This year will have a little extra sparkle as it also marks the 80th anniversary of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.
This annual event celebrates Northern Virginia’s love of animals and offers attendees a family- and pet-friendly event featuring adoptable animals, live music, vendors and activities for humans and pets alike.
Paws in the Park supports AWLA and our mission to provide shelter to animals in need and promote adoptions, animal welfare and responsible animal care in our community.
“Alexandria is consistently voted one of the most animal-friendly cities in America,” AWLA CEO Stella Hanly said, “and this is one of our favorite ways to celebrate that, connect with our animal-loving community and enjoy a fantastic day in the park.”
What to expect
In 2024, more than 4,000 people reveled in the day’s pet-centric activities and shopping. Sadly, in 2025, the event was cancelled due to weather.
However, we’re making sure this year’s event is truly one of a kind.
Along with many local artisans, nonprofits and animal-focused businesses, many food and beverage options will be available. Attendees can pack a picnic and also savor drinks and food from local cideries, breweries, bakeries, food trucks and more while enjoying the event.
Not only do we have a record-setting number of shopping vendors, we also have a record-breaking number of animal welfare organizations attending this year.
If you’ve been looking to add a furry member to your family, more than 20 animal welfare organizations and rescues in Rescue Row will have adoptable animals available for attendees to meet. The AWLA’s mobile adoption unit, Waggin’ Wheels, will also be on site with adoptable dogs, cats and rabbits.
This year’s entertainment begins at 11 a.m. and includes new musical performances from the Symphony Orchestra of Northern Virginia, local favorites Katie & Logan and the Pet Costume Contest. The Pet Costume Contest is open to everyone, and the registration fee of $25 benefits the AWLA.
You can find more details about the contest and preregister on the Paws in the Park website. Registration will also be accepted onsite until 12:30 p.m.
There’s plenty more fun to be had at both the Family Fun Tent and Silent Auction Tent. The Family Fun Tent will feature arts and crafts and activities geared for kids of all ages. There will also be a special interactive music and movement performance at 12:30 p.m. by Accelerando Music for kids ages 8 and under.
Attendees can also stop by the Silent Auction Tent to bid on unique items and experiences, from a signed Taylor Swift guitar to a beach vacation. The silent auction is currently available online as well, so winners will not need to be present to participate or win. Bidding is open now through event day at 3:30 p.m.
The proceeds from this event, including the silent auction, support our many community programs, like our Pet Pantry and low and no-cost vaccine and microchip clinics.
The first 1,000 attendees at Paws in the Park will receive a one-of-a-kind swag bag. Paws in the Park is open to leashed, well-behaved pets of all types. More information about this year’s festival can be found at pawsintheparkva.com.
Can’t make this event?
There is so much happening this fall. The AWLA’s collaboration with the Symphony Orchestra of Northern Virginia continues on Oct. 17, with an adoption event prior to their “Best in Show” concert at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial.
The AWLA’s 80th anniversary celebration continues on Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Torpedo Factory Art Center for a ticketed evening event with heavy cocktail-style hors d’oeuvres; beer, wine and signature cocktails; animal-loving company; a look back at 80 years of the AWLA; adoptable animals to cuddle; fun experiences; and more.
More information about both of these events can be found at alexandriaanimals.org/events.
The writer is the marketing and communications specialist of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.
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