Art, Pride, And Puppies To Be Celebrated In Canton

The Shops at Farmington Valley

CANTON, CT — A popular shopping destination in Canton is teaming up with local arts and animal groups for a special Pride Month event this Saturday, June 1.

The Shops at Farmington Valley in collaboration with the Canton Arts Council, The Friends of Canton Dog Park, and New England Puppy Rescue, is hosting the 4th Annual 'Pups + Pride Parade and Art Show' on Saturday.

It will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at The Shops at Farmington Valley, 110 Albany Turnpike, Canton.

The event is free and open to the public and will begin at The Canton Dog Park, 79 Commerce Drive, at 10 a.m.

Parade walkers and their pups will walk together along the scenic Farmington River Rail Trail, led by 2024 Parade Grand Marshall, Jaques Lamarre and his loyal pup, Bernard.

The parade will culminate at The Shops at Farmington Valley, where guests will enjoy an array of activities centered around celebrating art within our community.

Event highlights include:

• Dog Parade: Attendees are encouraged to dress their pets in colorful attire and participate in a fun-filled dog parade.
• Art Show: Local artists from the Canton Arts Council will showcase their art and host an art activity for kids. Pet Portrait Artist Marissa Leone will also be on-site displaying pet portraits.
• Puppy Adoption: In partnership with New England Puppy Rescue, visitors will have the opportunity to meet adorable puppies looking for their forever homes.
• Dog Treats: from Woofgang Bakery & Grooming and Ben and Jerry’s.
• Sips & Snacks: They will be available from 110 Grill, American Flatbread, Happy Tail Coffee, Small State Provisions, and more.
• Artists and Happy Tails Coffee: All artists and Happy Tails Coffee will donate a percentage of sales to New England Puppy Rescue.

“This family-friendly event uniquely blends the spirit of Pride Month with a love for pets, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees,” said Elizabeth Ackerman, general manager of The Shops at Farmington Valley.

“We are thrilled to welcome back our friends at The Canton Arts Council and the Friends of Canton Dog Park, while also highlighting a wonderful organization, New England Puppy Rescue, as we come together in celebration of art and our wonderful community.”

Dog owners are encouraged to pre-register online at Eventbrite. The first 50 registrants will receive a complimentary “Have you seen my dog tote.” For more information about the Pups + Pride Parade and Art Show, visit TheShopsatFarmingtonValley.com.