The Ultimate Guide to Twin Cities Pet Events This Summer (2026)
- Jun 17
- 17 min read
Updated: Jul 6
Hello, summer, is that you? Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to Twin Cities Pet Events This Summer, your one-stop shop for all the new and returning events for you and your pets in the area. Summer in Minnesota means pet-friendly festivals, art fairs, and benefit 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 Summer
Categories:
Pet-Friendly Art Fairs & Festivals
Dog Sports & Activities
Pet-Focused Events:
Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 9 am - 1 pm
Animal Ark, Hastings, MN
Organized by & Benefitting: Animal Ark
"Our annual 3K Walk brings together two- and four-legged friends and families for Fun, Food, and much more. There will be great vendors to discover, food trucks, cocktails, beer and wine sampling, goodie giveaways, dog and kid games, and a tremendous silent auction! PLUS, all dog and cat adoptions will be 25% off for adoptions initiated on June 6th and 7th, excluding puppies and kittens."
Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 11 am - 3 pm
Shoreview, MN
Organized by: Greyhound Pets of America - Minnesota (GPA-MN)
"GreyFest is GPA‑MN's signature annual summer event, bringing together greyhounds and their families and fans for a full day of celebration. Free to attend, but bring cash for the cool raffles that you won't want to miss! Enjoy a tasty picnic lunch & beverages, browse the vendors and raffles, compete in hound contests for all ages (Who is the zoomiest in Speed Alley? Who's got the Quickest Licker? Who is the most voracious Hotdog Bobber?), and indulge in plenty of greyhound socializing. Whether you're a longtime adopter or simply curious about the breed, GreyFest is the place to be! All proceeds support GPA‑MN's adoption mission. This year's theme is "Summer of Love," so put on your best bell-bottoms, tie dye, & love beads, and join us for the biggest love-in of the year! Stay tuned to our social media for more details!"
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Location TBD
Organized by: Scruff Life Photography
Admission: $225
"Adventure Minis are back! Join the fun on June 13th for a pack walk and shared photo session experience with like-minded dog people. This opportunity is limited to the first 5 groups that complete the booking process. More information is included on the booking page."
Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Kaposia Dog Park, South St. Paul, MN
Organized by: Minnesota Boxer Rescue
"We are holding our annual WIGGLEFEST event on Sunday, June 14th, from 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM. This is our biggest event of the year and a fun way for us to fundraise for the boxers we rescue. We will have dog rescues, vendors (not just stuff for dogs), a raffle (always a hit with everyone), food trucks, St. Paul Police and Firemen, training demonstrations, and more. We are also planning an online auction and an online 5k to coincide with Wigglefest. Planning is underway, and we'll update this event page with info along the way. Mark your calendars now! Everyone is invited, and every breed is welcome to come; this is not boxer-specific! Can't wait to see you there!"
Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 5 - 7 pm
Mahtomedi High School Fields, Mahtomedi, MN
Organized by: Mahtomedi Community Education
"Calling all pet lovers! You're invited to our very first Pet Extravaganza -- a fun-filled community event celebrating our furry friends! Join us for the Pet Parade at 5:30 p.m. on Fields 9 & 10, where costumes are encouraged, and the top three best-dressed pets will receive special prizes. You will also have the opportunity to explore booths from local shelters, pet stores, groomers, trainers, and more. LittleBoy Kitchen Food Truck will be there, too! If you are bringing a participating pet, registration is required. All other attendees are welcome to just come and enjoy the fun! Please remember that all pets must be leashed or safely contained at all times. Parking will be located at Wildwood Elementary. We can’t wait to see you and your fabulous pets there!"
Friday, June 19, 2026, starting at 5:30 pm
Chute Square, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Old Town Minneapolis
"Join us for a tail-wagging good time at our Dog Parade! Bring your furry best friend for a fun stroll around the block, exciting dog contests, tasty snacks, and pawsome prizes! From cutest pup to best costume, there’s something for every four-legged star. Come mingle, make memories, and celebrate our amazing dog-loving community!"
Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 4 - 6:30 pm
Maple Plain, MN
Organized by: First Presbyterian Church of Maple Plain
"Make plans now to bring your “best friend” to this year’s DoggiePawlooza – an annual celebration for dogs and the people who love them. All dogs and their humans, as well as those who love dogs, are welcome. Enjoy some time in the great outdoors with plenty of space for you and your canine companion to play and roam. Look forward to seeing you there for a sunnier event!"
Saturday, July 4, 2026, starting at 1 pm
Canterbury Park, Shakopee, MN
Organized by: Canterbury Park
"Celebrate the holiday in star-spangled style at The Park! Enjoy $2.50+tax admission, $2.50 food and beverage specials, plus tons of giveaways—including 250 free $2 wagers, food items and more. Additional highlights include a hot dog eating contest, and Wiener Dog Races, making Canterbury Park the ultimate red-white-and-blue celebration!"
Tuesday, July 14, 2026, from 6 - 7 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, July 25, 2026, from 11 am - 2 pm
City Paws Pet Club, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: City Paws Pet Club
"Join us for one of the most exciting community events of the summer! The City Paws Summer Festival & Market is a fun-filled afternoon bringing together families, dog lovers, and local businesses for games, shopping, food, and nonstop summer energy. Enjoy a lively outdoor market featuring pet-friendly vendors, unique local shops, a live silent auction, and activities for all ages. Kids can look forward to games, bouncy houses, and more fun activities, while pups get plenty of attention, treats, and tail-wagging excitement. We’re proud to host this event in support of Retrieve a Golden of the Midwest Animal Rescue, with all proceeds and donations going directly to help dogs in need."
Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 12 - 3 pm
Pet Haven, West St. Paul, MN
Organized by: Pet Haven
"Splash into summer with Pet Haven at our Pool Party to celebrate the beautiful Minnesota Summer! Join us for an afternoon of wagging tails, good food, and family fun while supporting rescue pets in our community."
Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 6:30 - 7:45 pm
Loring Park, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Board
"Join us for the 6th annual Loring Park Dog Show. We hand out a ton of prizes for all the unique dogs we get to meet! Your dog can compete for the waggiest tail, best costume, silliest trick, and more! The dog show will be held at the stage area near the tennis courts; registration begins at 6:45 pm, and competition will start at 7 pm. Many vendors will be onsite to participate! Everyone is welcome to come and cheer on all the dogs of Loring Park who compete for the 2026 6th annual dog show awards! A movie will follow at sundown."
Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 12 - 4 pm
Pet Central, NE Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Pet Central
Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 5 - 9 pm
Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA), Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: MIA
"Who let the dogs out? Mia, for the second year in a row! Bring your furry friend to the courtyard (on a leash!) and take a picture with The Traveling Photobooth. Laura Wennstrom helps you create a frame for your portrait. Have a pooch with no patience? Grab a pup cup for the road from the Sota Fountain."
Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 5 - 7 pm
Aquatore Park, Blaine, MN
Organized by: City of Blaine
Admission: Free to Attend
"Bring your favorite four-legged friend to visit with companies and non-profit groups specializing in dogs. The event will feature nail trimming for a fee and dog merchandise for sale at the vendor booths. You and your dog can each enjoy an ice cream while you sit back and listen to the music from The Backyard Band. There will be a food truck on site for the event. Free dog licenses are available on site from the Blaine Police Department, with proof of vaccinations."
Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 5 - 9 pm
Wildlife Science Center, Stacy, MN
Organized by: Wildlife Science Center
Admission: Adults - $15, Kids (ages 5-17) - $10, Under 5 - Free
"It's time again for our annual celebration of summer, the Midsummer Night's Dream! Join us for an evening of wolf howls, raptor tales, amazing food and drink. We are also thrilled to welcome our good friends from OMNI Brewery & Taproom who are providing the beverages. Doors open at 5 pm. Come roam and watch animals, try your hand at howling, and relax by the fire."
Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 12 - 4 pm
Pub 42, New Hope, MN
Organized by: Pub 42, New Hope MN Lions Club, and Underdog Rescue MN
"Pub 42's Woofstock event is BACK AGAIN this summer! It's a dog-friendly patio event that brings together local pet lovers, their pups, and the community for an afternoon of food, drinks, live music, and canine fun! Featuring giveaways, samples, charity raffle, adoptable dogs, live music, and more. We can't wait to see you, your dogs, and the amazing vendors that will be joining us then!"
Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 6 - 7 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!"
Wednesday, August 19, 2026, starting at 9 am
Bachman's Garden, Floral, and Home, Lyndale, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Bachman's Garden, Floral, and Home
"Bring your furry friend and celebrate Dog Days of Summer with us! Enjoy a tail-wagging day filled with treats, photo ops, and paw-some activities—because pups deserve to party too. At All Bachman’s Locations: Free Pup Cups & Treats, Photo Wall, Paw Print Art Station, Dog-Friendly Shopping."
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, 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, 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 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."
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."
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!"
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! Event goers 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 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."
Pet-Friendly Art Fairs & Festivals:
Friday, June 5 - Sunday, June 7, 2026
50th & France, Edina, MN
Organized by: The 50th & France Business Association
Admission: Free
"Launched in 1966, the Edina Art Fair has been rated top 50 best art fairs in the nation by Sunshine Artist and ranked #1 in MN and #32 out of the Top 100 Fine Art Fairs by the Art Fair Source Book. It was awarded Best Community Event by Edina Magazine in 2014 and 2017, received the Mayor's Award for Outstanding Community Involvement in 2013, and voted Best Community Event by Minnesota Monthly Magazine in 2016."
Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 1 - 6 pm
Bloomington Civic Plaza, Bloomington, MN
Admission: Free
"Join us for the Bloomington Pride MN Festival—a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, diversity, and community! This family-friendly event brings together over 3,000 attendees for a day filled with live performances, food trucks, vendor booths, kids' activities, and more! Let’s celebrate love, equality, and belonging together! Mark your calendar and bring your friends, family, and allies. Featuring live music, entertainment, local vendors, community organizations, kid-friendly activities, and a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere."
Saturday, June 20 - Sunday, June 21, 2026
West River Parkway, Minneapolis, MN
Admission: Free
"Stone Arch Bridge Festival returns to the west side of the Mississippi River. The Stone Arch Bridge is committed to providing a platform for artists to sell their work and the community to gather safely. More than 200 artists and culinary artists will participate with a broad spectrum of artistic mediums."
Saturday, June 27 - Sunday, June 28, 2026
Loring Park, Minneapolis, MN
Admission: Free
"The Twin Cities Pride Festival is Minnesota’s second largest festival and the largest FREE Pride festival. Highlighting the best in LGBTQIA+ entertainment on 3 stages, featuring over 650 vendors, including LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC community resources, artists, and businesses."
Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 11 am - 3 pm
Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
"This family-friendly event will be a fun day celebrating animals of all kinds - wild and domestic. We’ll join other animal groups with tables full of animal-themed science activities and fun for everyone! Bring the whole family to spend time with and meet all kinds of animals, including pocket pet Animal Ambassadors from our rescue."
Friday, July 17 - Sunday, July 19, 2026
Minnehaha Regional Park, Minneapolis, MN
Admission: Free
"Minnehaha Falls Park, one of Minneapolis' oldest and most popular parks, features a majestic 53-foot waterfall, limestone bluffs, and river overlooks, attracting more than 850,000 visitors annually. Minnehaha Falls Art Fair was voted by artists in the Sunshine Artist Magazine as the 49th Best Art Fair in the United States and the 2nd Best Art Fair in Minnesota! The event will feature approximately 150 artist booths, along with music, crafts, food, and more. Details will be announced here as they are available."
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, June 6, 2026, from 9 am - 1 pm
Animal Ark, Hastings, MN
Benefiting: Animal Ark
Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Kaposia Dog Park, South St. Paul, MN
Benefiting: Minnesota Boxer Rescue
Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 12 - 2 pm
Bone Marche
Benefiting: MACC Pack
"We’re excited to partner with our friends at MACC PACK and KME Photography for a special PRIDE Photoshoot to support shelter animals in need! Bring your pet and capture beautiful pride-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."
Sunday, July 12, 2026, from 4 - 6 pm
Butcher & The Boar, Minneapolis, MN
Benefiting: Ruff Start Rescue
"Join Ruff Start Rescue on the patio at Butcher & The Boar on Sunday, July 12th, with delicious drinks and great company, while supporting animals at Ruff Start Rescue! 4-6 pm: Meat Raffle and visit the Ruff Start Rescue info booth with prizes & meet adoptable dogs! 7 pm: Live Music with The Roe Family Singers. Happy Hour from 3-6 pm. Ruff Start Rescue will also be collecting new and gently used pet supplies and food. Click here to view a list of their most needed items. The patio will be first-come, first-served (no reservations)."
Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 3 - 9 pm
Savage, MN
Benefiting: Warrior Dog Rescue
"Warrior Dog Rescue is excited to invite you to our Warriors and Wags, 9-year celebration! Please join us for food, fun, and furry friends! All of our Warrior Dog Alum and their families, our amazing fosters and volunteers, WDR supporters, and all members of the community are invited to help us celebrate! Stop by and check out all of the fun things we will have ready for you all to enjoy on Saturday. The silent auction is packed with amazing stuff from trips to sports tickets, and everything in between. Please mark your calendar. We can’t wait to see you!"
Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 11 am - 1 pm
Steele & Hops Kitchen/Bar
Benefiting: Ruff Start Rescue
"Join us for brunch at Steele & Hops as we partner with Ruff Start Rescue for a fun-filled event benefiting dogs in need! Meet adoptable rescue dogs looking for their forever homes. Bring your pup and enjoy brunch on our dog-friendly patio. Enter to win dog-themed raffle baskets filled with treats, toys, and accessories. Treat your furry friend to our special dog brunch menu and dog beers. Support Ruff Start Rescue through our Community Keg, with proceeds donated to help animals in need."
Dog Sports & Activities:
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Any Minnesota State Park
Admission: Free
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Location: William O'Brien State Park
Admission: $225
"Adventure Minis are back! Join the fun on June 13th for a pack walk and shared photo session experience with like-minded dog people. This opportunity is limited to the first 5 groups that complete the booking process. More information is included on the booking page."
Sunday, June 14, 2026
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, Nerstrand, MN
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Led by: @leinies.golden.life
Admission: Free (sign up here)
Saturday, June 27, 2026
Bde Maka Ska Loop, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Led by: @lucyandlinus018
Admission: Free (sign up here)
Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 11 am - 1 pm
Purgatory Creek Conservation Area, Eden Prairie, MN
Organized by: Minnesota Disc Dog Club
"Show up and have fun! Run through your new freestyle routine, practice game strategies, try out some new throws, and share tips with each other/gather feedback if needed."
Date TBD
Location TBD
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Led by: @leinies.golden.life
Admission: Free (sign up here)
Date TBD
Location TBD
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Led by: @lucyandlinus018
Admission: Free (sign up here)
Date TBD
Location TBD
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Led by: @leinies.golden.life
Admission: Free (sign up here)
Date TBD
Location TBD
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Led by: @lucyandlinus018
Admission: Free (sign up here)
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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