The Ultimate Guide to Twin Cities Pet Events This Summer (2026)
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- 12 min read
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!"
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!"
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."
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."
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!"
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 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!"
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
Benefitting: Animal Ark
Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Kaposia Dog Park, South St. Paul, MN
Benefitting: Minnesota Boxer Rescue
Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 12 - 2 pm
Bone Marche
Benefitting: 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."
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)
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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