The Ultimate Guide to Twin Cities Pet Events This Fall (2026)
The glorious return of cool temps and colorful leaves! Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to Twin Cities Pet Events This Fall, your one-stop shop for all the new and returning events for you and your pets in the area. Fall in Minnesota means pet-friendly fall festivals, harvest activities, and outdoor events. It also means lots of group walks, hikes, and adventures. Whatever you and your pup like to do, this guide will fill you in on all the best events happening around Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the greater Twin Cities area!
The Ultimate Guide to Twin Cities Pet Events This Fall
Categories:
Pet-Focused Events:
Saturday, September 5 - Monday, September 7, 2026
Minnesota Renaissance Festival Grounds, Shakopee, MN
Organized by: The Minnesota Renaissance Festival
"Peace, love, and pups! Bring your four-legged friends for a tail-wagging good time featuring pet-friendly fun, themed contests, and plenty of treats for humans and hounds alike."
Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 5:30 - 6:30 pm
Orono Dog Park, Elk River, MN
Organized by: Elk River Parks & Recreation
"Bring your furry friend and beat the summer heat at our Dog Days of Summer events! Dog Days is the perfect social hour for your pup at Orono Dog Park. Dogs can run and play, make new friends, and enjoy the sunshine while their humans relax and connect with fellow dog lovers. All friendly, vaccinated dogs are welcome! Thank you to our event sponsors, Chuck and Don's and Spikes & Houles Feed, Seed, & Pet Supply, for making our Dog Days events a blast!"
Saturday, September 12, 2026, starting at 8 am
Thomas Beach, Lake Bde Maka Ska, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: The Bond Between
"Lace up your sneakers, leash up your pup, and get ready to run, walk, and save lives! We are thrilled to invite you to The Bond Between’s annual Fast & The Furriest 5K on Saturday, September 12th, at Thomas Beach on beautiful Lake Bde Maka Ska. This event is so much more than just a morning run—it’s a powerful community fundraising movement for animals in need. This year, we’ve set our biggest goal yet: to raise $100,000, and we can’t hit that milestone without you! Whether you’re a competitive runner or just looking for a scenic morning stroll with your furry best friend, every single step you take helps us rescue and care for animals."
Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 9 am - 12 pm
Hilde Performance Center, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Rescue Network
"Join us for the second annual Strut For Mutts 2026 (Minnesota), Rescue Network’s premier fundraising walk/run uniting animal lovers, adopters, and advocates in support of our life-saving mission. This uplifting community event celebrates the power of second chances while raising vital funds to support our growing rescue efforts."
Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10 am - 2 pm
Downtown Wayzata, MN
Organized by: Wayzata West Metro Chamber
"The races will be held on Saturday, September 12 at noon at the JJHD Dog Park (at the Panoway on Wayzata Bay Plaza) in Downtown Wayzata. The cost for entry for each event is $25. The races consist of three events: Sprints, Hurdles, and a Costume Contest. You can register for one event or all three! Entries will be accepted until the race is full. Entry fees are non-refundable."
Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 1 - 2 pm
Happy Days Field, Ramsey, MN
Organized by: City of Ramsey
"Join us for the Happy Days Dog Show on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your furry friend and connect with other dog enthusiasts. Armstrong Ranch Kennels generously sponsors this event. At registration, select one category for your dog to enter: Best Dressed, Cutest Puppy, Silver Snout, General/Best Pet."
Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 6 - 9 pm
Quincy Hall, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Animal Humane Society
"Pets hold a special place in our hearts, and it’s a love worth celebrating! Join us Saturday, September 12 for an unforgettable evening in the heart of the Minneapolis Arts District at Whisker Whirl. We’re excited to bring together our most passionate animal lovers — and their canine companions — to help us make a difference for animals in need. This annual fundraising gala offers a meaningful opportunity to deepen your connection to Animal Humane Society’s mission and further support our lifesaving work in the community. The best part: Dogs are welcome, too! Enjoy a seated dinner, participate in our auctions and fundraising activities, strike a pose with your pup, and more — all in support of animals and the people who love them."
Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 9 am – 1 pm
Long Lake Regional Park, New Brighton, MN
Organized by: RAGOM - Retrieve a Golden of the Midwest
"Something BIG is coming… Are you ready? Get ready for Goldzilla—RAGOM’s unforgettable Fun Fair and Walk for Rescue! Walk alongside fellow Golden lovers. Enjoy a day packed with exciting activities. Meet adorable Goldens and Golden mixes. Support a mission that saves lives. One of the biggest Golden Retriever events in America, Goldzilla is more than just a day of fun—it’s a chance to make a real difference. Every dollar raised helps rescue and rehome Golden Retrievers in need. Stay tuned for event details and registration—this is one GIGANTIC event you won’t want to miss!"
Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 11 am - 2 pm
Downtown Wayzata, MN
Organized by: Wayzata West Metro Chamber
"You and your pup are challenged to join us on Sunday, September 13, from 12:30 – 2 pm for the JJHD DOGGY OLYMPICS! Looking for a great way to engage, burn off some energy, and have fun with your pup? Games are the best way to do that – they are fun for you and your dog! BYOD (Bring Your Own Dog) and take on the challenge of the WINE GLASS WALK, the ever-popular MUSICAL BEACH CHAIRS game, and the ultimate test of focus: our LONGEST SIT-STAY contest."
Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 11 am - 3 pm
Grand Ave, St. Paul, MN
Organized by: Grand Ave Business Association
"Enjoy all Grand Avenue has to offer...with your furry friend at Paws on Grand! Adopt a Pet, shop the Pet Marketplace, get pet portraits, and cheer on the Wiener Dog Races! No pet? No problem. PAWS on Grand partners with dozens of pet rescue organizations so you can adopt a range of pets."
Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 am - 1:30 pm
Coon Rapids Civic Center, Coon Rapids, MN
Organized by: City of Coon Rapids
"This annual event features fur-tastic events such as a pet/owner costume contest, pet parade, pet and kids games, and more! Eventgoers can browse dozens of vendor booths offering pet-related products, services, and resources. There's even a Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest to show off your creativity! Demonstrations, entertainment, and more! Come to the pet fair with your well-behaved, leashed furry friend and have a great time meeting other pet owners!"
Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10:30 - 11:30 am
St. Paul's Monastery, St. Paul, MN
Organized by: St. Paul's Monastery
"Join the Benedictine Sisters of St. Paul’s Monastery for our annual Blessing of the Animals on Saturday, September 19 at 10:30 AM. All are welcome, along with pets of every kind, for a joyful outdoor prayer service and individual blessings celebrating the special bond we share with all creatures. Pets will receive a Monastery bandana and blessed St. Benedict medal, with treats and refreshments for all. Guests are also invited to bring a donation of pet food or supplies for Tubman’s Harriet’s Haven for Pets. Registrations encouraged; just bring your beloved companion and a smile!"
Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 5 - 6:30 pm
Rivertown Dog Park, Hastings, MN
Organized by: City of Hastings Government
"Visit the Rivertown Dog Park on Thursday, September 24th, 5:00 - 6:30 PM with your furry companions! Event highlights include: 20+ Dog-Friendly Booths & Giveaways, “Strut Your Mutt” Costume Contest & Prizes, Raffles & Prize Baskets, Caffeinated Rooster Food Truck & Picnic tables outside the park. A special THANK YOU to our sponsor: Fluegel's Lawn, Garden and Pet Supply in Hastings!"
Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 11 am - 4 pm
Linden Hills Village, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Linden Hills Woofstock
Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 11 am - 2 pm
Chaska Veterans Park, Chaska, MN
Organized by: Carver Scott Humane Society
"Lace up your sneakers, leash up your furry friends, and get ready for a day full of tail wags and smiles—all in support of Carver Scott Humane Society (CSHS). Run, Walk, Wag is a family- and dog-friendly 5K, welcoming seasoned runners, casual walkers, and their leashed companions alike. After you cross the finish line, stick around for a lively community celebration featuring a pet and local business fair—and of course, the real stars of the show: adoptable animals ready to find their forever homes."
Saturday, September 26 - Sunday, September 27, 2026
Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Falcon Heights, MN
Organized by: University of Minnesota Extension
"Every September, 4-H'ers and their dogs compete in agility, obedience, showmanship, and rally. This two-day event takes place at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. The Minnesota 4-H State Dog Show will take place Sept. 26 and 27, 2026. Spectators are welcome, and admission is free. This is a fun family event."
Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 1 - 2:30 pm
The Howe Daily Kitchen & Bar, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Club Pilates, Healing Hearts Rescue, and the Howe
"Join Club Pilates + Healing Hearts Dog Rescue at The Howe for Puppies, Pints & Pilates — because honestly, is there a better trio? Space is LIMITED - ticket purchase is required! Stay after for the Vikings Game!"
Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 9:30 - 11:30 am
Freedom Park, New Brighton, MN
Organized by: New Brighton Parks & Recreation
"Join us at New Brighton Parks and Recreation's annual dog-themed special event: Tails on the Trails! Take your pup for a walk while you visit company and non-profit vendor booths, see special dog-related demonstrations, and let your leashed pup socialize with other neighborhood friends. We'll have kids' activities, giveaways, and more. No pup? No problem! There will be plenty of fun for the whole family. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet."
Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 11 am - 4 pm
Wildlife Science Center, Stacy, MN
Organized by: Wildlife Science Center
"Join us for this unique annual event featuring autumn family fun among the wolves, raptors, bears, cougars, and other resident wild animals. Enjoy educational demonstrations, shop with local artisans and vendors selling their wares, and get a great meal from Philly Station! OMNI Brewery & Taproom will be on-site providing adult beverages. Presentations include. All event proceeds benefit the Wildlife Science Center. Have fun and help fundraise for a great cause!"
Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 3 - 7 pm
Unleashed Hounds & Hops, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Unleashed Hounds & Hops
"The pet lovers marketplace returns! LollaPawLooza takes over our parking lot, home of the Minneapolis Farmers Market Annex, for one afternoon of shopping, sniffing, and tail wagging. Think farmers market, but exclusively for pets. Browse local makers and pet-friendly businesses from across Minnesota, meet animal rescues, and sample tastings from dog-friendly breweries and wineries, all with your best friend by your side. Whether you're stocking up on treats, hunting for the perfect new leash, or just here for the dogs (we get it), there's something for every pet lover."
Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 10:30 am - 1:30 pm
Lakefront Park, Prior Lake, MN
Organized by: Adopt a Husky Minnesota
"Our annual fundraising event and an opportunity for us to thank all of our adopters and supporters with a dog-friendly filled day! We start our day with a hike around beautiful Lakefront Park in Prior Lake, MN. After the hike, attendees are free to check out our silent auction, raffle items, and tons of vendors! We also provide lunch for registered participants. Our day wraps up with prizes for those who raised the most and awards for a few of our outstanding volunteers!"
Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 11 am - 2 pm
Heritage Village Park, Inver Grove Heights, MN
Organized by: City of Inver Grove Heights
"We'll have local pet vendors, dog activities, costume contests (most creative, cutest, owner/pup look-a-like, top dog), and first and second prizes for all categories except top dog. To keep things exciting and to give new participants a chance, previous first-place winners are welcome to join for fun but are not eligible for prizes. Also, doggy photo booth, a food truck, and ruffle (raffle) drawing. This event is held outdoors; please come dressed for the weather. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Please pick up after your pup."
Friday, October 9, 2026, from 5 - 7 pm
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, Brooklyn Park, MN
Organized by: City of Brooklyn Park
"Celebrate Howl-o-Ween with your favorite pup at the new Mississippi Gateway Regional Dog Park! Live music by Jake Stow during the event. Free activities for dogs include photos of your pup at the photo booth, capture a doodle of your dog with MNDoodleBooth, pup cup treats, run wild in the off-leash area, and enjoy live music while you hang out."
Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 12 - 3 pm
The Commons Park, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Minneapolis Parks & Recreation
"Calling all pet parents and animal lovers! Join us for PAWS at The Commons (425 Portland Avenue South) for a free, fun-filled day dedicated to our furry friends! Bring your pets, dress them up in their best costumes, and enjoy a day of shopping, contests, and community! Whether you're looking for treats, toys, or just some fun in the park, PAWS has something for your dog friend."
Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 12 - 3 pm
Wolf Park, St. Louis Park, MN
Organized by: Bone Marché and the City of Saint Louis Park
"Bring your furry friends and best costumes to Wolfe Park for HOWL-O-WEEN. Visitors can stroll through the park with their pets, meet us, and do a little shopping. At 2:30 p.m., there will be a costume contest for all pets with fantastic prizes, including one from us! The event is for all ages and is free to attend. Note: Pets must be on a leash that can be shortened to 6 feet."
Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 3 - 7:30 pm
Wildlife Science Center, Stacy, MN
Organized by: Wildlife Science Center
"Fall has arrived, and that means it's time for WSC's annual Oktoberfest celebration! Join us on October 17th from 3 pm - 7:30 pm, see the wolves against the backdrop of falling leaves, try your hand at Hammerschlagen, challenge your friends to a game of corn hole, sip brews from OMNI Brewery & Taproom while munching on the irresistible eats from WontonCreations. We are excited to have The Workin’ Dogs join us with some amazing music! The bears will still be awake, so don't miss a chance to see our chunky bruins before they hit the sack for winter. Remember to bring your dog(s) and a friend or two and come on out for the fun!"
Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 12 - 2 pm
Bone Marché, Saint Louis Park, MN
Organized by: Bone Marché, KME Photography, and MACC Pack
"Get out the pet costumes or come as you are! KME Photography and MACC Pack have teamed up again for photos. Bring your pet and capture beautiful autumn-themed photos, while helping raise funds for animals at Minneapolis Animal Care and Control. Every session helps provide treats, medical care, sponsored adoption fees, and equipment for the animals. Whether your pet is fluffy, goofy, shy, or full of personality, this is the perfect chance to celebrate them and support a great cause."
Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1 - 3 pm
McRae Park, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Minneapolis Parks & Recreation
"Participants are invited to bring their pups to McRae to enjoy fun activities, including tricks-for-treating in the park and a costume contest. Treats will be available for dogs and humans at this event that is sure to be a scary good time! Off-leash areas will be available on site for dogs of all sizes. Registered participants will receive treats and will be entered to win a prize in our costume contest. Dog enthusiasts are invited to attend."
Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 12 - 2 pm
Kenwood Park, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Minneapolis Parks & Recreation
"Participants are invited to bring their pups to Kenwood to enjoy fun activities, including tricks-for-treating in the park and a costume contest. Treats will be available for dogs and humans at this event that is sure to be a scary good time! Off-leash areas will be available on site for dogs of all sizes. Registered participants will receive treats and will be entered to win a prize in our costume contest. Dog enthusiasts are invited to attend."
Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 6:30 - 8 pm
BrewPark, Plymouth, MN
Organized by: BrewPark Plymouth
"Get your pup in costume and join us for a howling good time! It's time for Brew Park's 2026 Halloween Doggy Costume Contest, with $500 in cash prizes up for grabs."
Friday, October 30, 2026, from 6 - 7:30 pm
Loring Park, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Minneapolis Parks & Recreation
"Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at our annual Howl-o-ween Dog Costume Contest! Dress up your pup in their spookiest, silliest, or most creative costume and compete for fun prizes. Meet fellow dog lovers, warm up by the bonfire, and enjoy delicious treats—for both humans and furry friends! Whether you're entering the contest or just here for the cute costumes, it's a fun evening for all. Judging begins at 6:30 pm! No tricks, just treats—and plenty of wagging tails! The event takes place rain or shine. Be sure to dress for the weather!"
Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 11 - 4 pm
Wildlife Science Center, Stacy, MN
Organized by: Wildlife Science Center
"It's that time of year again when ghosts visit the wolves at the Wildlife Science Center! Join us on October 31st from 11AM - 4PM for our annual Howl-O-Ween celebration! Come in costume to trick the animals! We also encourage grown ups to dress up and bring the family dog(s) in costume too! Kids can paint pumpkins, collect candy, and take part in a scavenger hunt, all while being surrounded by cougars and bears and wolves--OH MY! We are so excited to have Deep Root Concessions providing food and The Triple Sip with some amazing dirty sodas and more! Juliana Brandt will be here with her amazing books that will be available for purchase. All proceeds benefit the Wildlife Science Center."
Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 1 - 2 pm
Chuck & Don's Pet Food & Supplies, Edina, MN
Organized by: Chuck & Don's
"Dress your pup in their spooky best & join the fun! Bring your furry friends for a paws-itively spooky afternoon at pet-friendly 50th & France! Dressed-up dogs will parade along France Ave for the chance to win Chuck & Don’s Costume Contest. Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place Dog Halloween Costumes. This event is completely free, and all are welcome. Join us for Trick-or-Treating around the district the same day."
Pet-Friendly Art Fairs & Festivals:
August 22nd - October 4, 2026, Rain or Shine
Open weekends (Sat. & Sun.) plus Labor Day, September 7th & Festival Friday, October 2nd
Minnesota Renaissance Festival Grounds, Shakopee, MN
Admission: Varies
"Bring Your Dog – The Festival Is Dog Friendly! No other pets will be allowed on Festival grounds. There is a Dog Gate at both King’s and Queen’s Gate entrances."
Pet-Related Benefit Events:
Saturday, September 12, 2026, starting at 8 am
Thomas Beach, Lake Bde Maka Ska, Minneapolis, MN
Benefiting: The Bond Between
Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 9 am - 12 pm
Hilde Performance Center, Minneapolis, MN
Benefiting: Rescue Network
Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 6 - 9 pm
Quincy Hall, Minneapolis, MN
Benefiting: Animal Humane Society
Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 9 am – 1 pm
Long Lake Regional Park, New Brighton, MN
Benefiting: RAGOM - Retrieve a Golden of the Midwest
Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 am - 1 pm
Crazy Legs Farm & Pumpkins, Farmington, MN
Benefiting: Rescue Network
Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 11 am - 2 pm
Chaska Veterans Park, Chaska, MN
Benefiting: Carver Scott Humane Society
Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 8 am - 12 pm
Minnehaha Falls Regional Park, Minneapolis, MN
Benefiting: NAMI Minnesota
Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 11 am - 4 pm
Wildlife Science Center, Stacy, MN
Benefiting: Wildlife Science Center
Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 10:30 am - 1:30 pm
Lakefront Park, Prior Lake, MN
Benefiting: Adopt a Husky Minnesota
Dog Sports & Activities:
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Jay Cooke State Park, Carlton, MN
Led by: @lucyandlinus018
Admission: Free (sign up here)
TBD
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
TBD
Led by: @leinies.golden.life
Admission: Free (sign up here)
TBD
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
TBD
Led by: @lucyandlinus018
Admission: Free (sign up here)
TBD
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
TBD
Led by: @leinies.golden.life
Admission: Free (sign up here)
Friday, November 27, 2026
Any Minnesota State Park
Admission: Free
Add an Event:
Am I missing a Twin Cities pet event? Do you have an upcoming event you'd like to add to a future blog post? Please submit your event here to get it added to this list! Thank you!
About Scruff Life Photography:
Hi, I'm Lauren, the pet-loving photographer behind Scruff Life Photography! Based in Minnesota, I specialize in capturing the unique bond between people and their beloved pets. Whether you’ve just welcomed a new furry friend into your life or are cherishing the years spent with a lifelong companion, I’m here to help you preserve those special moments. Pets are family, and their stories deserve to be celebrated with timeless, professional photos you’ll treasure forever. Let’s create something meaningful together — reach out today to schedule your pet photo session!
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