Santa Paws is coming to town, and his first stop is the fifth annual Pooches & Presents - Delray is Going to the Dogs. Bring Fido to join in on fetching activities, from a raffle and Santa photos to a doggie splash zone and an exciting lure course. With vendors for shopping, tasty snacks, and even adoptable pups seeking homes for the holidays, this event has it all. Don’t forget to dress Fido in his cutest holiday gear for a chance to win prizes.

Pooches & Presents will be held on December 15, 2024, from noon to 4 p.m. at Delray Beach’s Old School Square, with free admission courtesy of the nonprofit, Pets’ Broward. After the event, treat Fido to a Beggin' for Beef burger off the dog menu at nearby Deck 84, which welcomes pups outside. For an overnight stay, the Atlantic Hideaway is the perfect spot to rest after a day of fun.

All of Santa’s reindogs are invited to prance at the Christmas Pet Parade at Holiday in the Park. Fido can spread cheer by dressing up in his best Christmas attire and dashing through the League City streets. Don’t miss the chance for photos with Santa and prizes for the best dressed pup, too.

The Christmas Pet Parade at Holiday in the Park, sponsored by Faithful Friends Animal Assisted Therapy, takes place on December 8, 2024, from noon to 2 p.m. at League Park in League City, TX. While admission is free, those who pre-register can be among the first 50 participants to check in and receive a goody bag. Then parade on over to the Candlewood Suites League City an IHG Hotel, which offers a designated pet area complete with waste stations.

Bring your poodle to the Holiday Pup & Pickle Fest, Boonsboro’s “ultimutt” pickle-packed celebration for families and furry friends. Leashed dogs are welcome to strut their stuff in their “pickliest” or most cheerful holiday outfits as they join the pup parade. With tickets covering parking, pickle samples, unique local vendors, live music, and more, this event promises a “dill-ightful” day for everyone.

Join the fun on December 21, 2024, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Washington County Agricultural Education Center in Boonsboro, MD. Tickets are $21 for early entry, $18 for regular entry, and $15 for late entry, with all proceeds benefiting local dog rescue groups. Make a weekend of it and stay at this charming Historic Cottage Retreat, a beautiful vacation rental with a spacious yard perfect for Fido to frolic.

Get ready to jingle all the way at the Jingle Bell Fun Run, a holiday-themed 5K. Leashed pups are invited to don their Santa suits and trot alongside Kris Kringle himself for a joyful jog or brisk walk. Families with little ones can also join a one-mile kids’ dash, ensuring there's holiday cheer for everyone.

Head to Fort Steilacoom Park in Lakewood, WA, for the Jingle Bell Fun Run. Sponsored by the City of Lakewood and Lakes Cross Country Boosters Club, this event takes place on December 14, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon. After the race, grab a cup of coffee from One Day Cafe, then make yourself at home at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Tacoma Lakewood.

Treat your terrier to a night at Tinsel & Tails: TAP’s Holiday Extravaganza. Hosted by The Animal Pad, this annual celebration supports dogs in need through a tiered fundraising raffle and a lively silent auction. The “pawliday” market is packed with local vendors like Puppy Picnic Co, Pure Pawsh, Dog Devoted Vintage, and Dexters Deli. With $5 drinks to keep spirits merry and bright, a photo booth, and music all night by DJ C-Riz, what more could a Christmas canine want?

Save the date for Tinsel & Tails: TAP’s Holiday Extravaganza on December 13, 2024, from 5 to 11 p.m. at BRICK in San Diego, CA. This dog-friendly event is free to attend, so come ready to celebrate the season. For a cozy stay, the Urban Boutique Hotel is a nearby option for your San Diego getaway.

Santa’s made his list and checked it twice, so it’s time for Fido to find out if he’s been naughty or nice at Santa Paws in the Park. This jolly event is packed with fun activities for pups and their people, including a pet parade, an ugly sweater competition, and the chance for photos with Santa. Your furry friends can also join in on crafts like making a treat wreath and a picture with Santa ornament. To top it all off, there will be free pup cups to keep tails wagging.

Join the festivities on December 7, 2024, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Jacob L. Loose Park in Kansas City, MO. Hosted by Kansas City Parks and Recreation and Barkcuterie KC, admission is free, with optional add-ons that benefit the Laura Conyers Smith Rose Garden. After the event, head over to Char Bar’s enclosed, heated patio for a pet-friendly meal. Round out your trip in Kansas City with a night at the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza an IHG Hotel, only a half mile from the event venue.