United Way's 'Dogtoberfest' Event Coming To Capitol Park

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The United Way of West Alabama on Tuesday announced plans to host its second annual Dogtoberfest Pet Parade and Blessing in Capitol Park in October.

Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.

The event will be on Sunday, Oct. 8 at 1:30 p.m. and headed up by UWWA's ReUnited members —a retiree-led affinity group.

“We are thrilled to be able to host this fun, outdoor event where you can bring your whole family—furry ones included,” ReUnited President Pam Pruitt said. “No matter your age, who doesn’t love to see pets prancing around in their costumes and getting all glammed up for an afternoon at the park. It’s fun for everyone.”

The event will feature paw reading, paw portraits, red carpet photos, face painting, a Neiman Barkus store, adoptable animals and live music.

Still, the day's main event will be the much-anticipated Pet Parade, which will be led by the event's first-ever grand marshal, Tuscaloosa City Councilman Lee Busby and his dog, Petey.

UWWA says the parade begins at 2:30 p.m., with the costume contests directly following.

Costume contest categories include: Pup/Parent Look Alike, Most School Spirit and Best HOWL-o-weenie Costume.

The event will conclude with Rev. Paul Pradat of Christ Episcopal leading a pet blessing beginning at 3:15 p.m. to coincide with the annual Feast of St. Francis — the patron saint of animals.

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com