Dog Events in Normal, IL

Here are the pet friendly events closest to Normal. Use the links below to get details on each event, print directions, look at pictures, and even read reviews of last year’s event.

Jul 18

Run for the Dogs 5k

Aurora, IL

Run for the Dogs 5k Calling all dog lovers and their furry friends! Lace-up your running shoes, grab your leash, and get ready for an exciting adventure that will leave tails wagging. This event is perfect for everyone, whether a serious runner or a casual walker. Your registration will include treats, a t-shirt, a finisher medal and more. See Details

Jul 19

Dog Admission Day at Morton Arboretum

Lisle, IL

Dog Admission Day at Morton Arboretum Pups are welcome to enjoy roaming the 16 miles of hiking trails around the Arboretum several times a year on select days! Dogs must be leashed at all times and have updated vaccinations and registrations. For the safety of both your pet and the natural environment, dogs aren't permitted off the marked trails. Please clean up after your pet; bags are available at the Visitor Center. See Details

Jul 17–19

Tacos y Tamales Festival

Chicago, IL

Tacos y Tamales Festival Experience a vibrant celebration with your leashed pup, featuring authentic tacos and tamales, live music, dance performances, local artists, artisan vendors, street cantinas, and family-friendly entertainment. Inspired by traditional Mexican markets, the festival showcases a diverse selection of food and cultural experiences while supporting local community organizations. As this event tends to attract large crowds, please ensure your pup is well-mannered and comfortable in busy environments. See Details

Jul 19

Canine Confidence Course at Pup Social

Chicago, IL

Canine Confidence Course at Pup Social Help your dog build confidence through a structured enrichment class designed for shy, cautious, anxious, or easily distracted pups. Participants will work through obstacle courses, explore novel objects, and practice positive reinforcement exercises while receiving guidance to improve social confidence and comfort with new experiences. The class is ideal for rescue dogs, timid puppies, and any dog that could benefit from confidence-building in a supportive environment. Space is limited, and advance registration is recommended. See Details

Jul 19

Paws and Pours: Dog Treat Decorating Workshop

Urbana, IL

Paws and Pours: Dog Treat Decorating Workshop Join a creative, hands-on workshop where guests decorate homemade dog treats to take home for their pups while enjoying a relaxed brewery setting. All supplies are provided, along with step-by-step guidance and a complimentary drink. Dogs are welcome, but please note that decorating requires both hands. See Details

Jul 26

Bark BQ Bash

Chicago, IL

Bark BQ Bash Join a community-focused charity event benefiting Chi-Town Pitties & One Tail at a Time, featuring adoptable dogs, pet-friendly vendors, and activities for animal lovers. Guests can enjoy pet portraits, photography, local vendors, themed treats, and complimentary refreshments while meeting rescue teams and learning about fostering and adoption opportunities. See Details

Jul 29

Pups & Trivia Night at Pup Social

Chicago, IL

Pups & Trivia Night at Pup Social Test your canine knowledge during a dog-themed trivia night where teams compete through multiple rounds of questions about breeds, famous dogs, pet care, and fun canine facts. While owners enjoy friendly competition, dogs can socialize during supervised off-leash play. Prizes are awarded to top-performing teams! See Details

Aug 1

Pet Walk Racine-Kenosha

Kenosha, WI

Pet Walk Racine-Kenosha Grab Fido's leash and join this annual family-friendly race and festival to raise funds for a great cause. The morning includes a walk through the park, and a fun festival featuring live entertainment, canine carnival games, food and merchandise vendors, a lure and agility course, face painting , photo ops, raffles, and more! See Details

Jun 9–Aug 11

Summer Concert Series at Fishel Park

Downers Grove, IL

Summer Concert Series at Fishel Park Leashed dogs (6' max leash) are welcome at this weekly outdoor concert series featuring live music performances across a variety of genres. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages, and there will also be vendors starting at 6 PM. Music begins at 7 PM. See Details

Jun 2 & Aug 18

Dog Day with the Joliet Slammers

Joliet, IL

Dog Day with the Joliet Slammers Take Fido out to a ballgame! Dog-friendly games are held on select dates throughout the season, so make sure to check the website's schedule to catch a game. See Details

Select dates May 24–Aug 25

Bark in the Park with the Schaumburg Boomers

Schaumburg, IL

Bark in the Park with the Schaumburg Boomers Fans are invited to bring well-behaved, leashed dogs to enjoy the ballpark! Dog-friendly games are held on select dates throughout the season, so make sure to check the website's schedule to catch a game. The event includes themed game-day activities and benefits local community efforts. Owners are responsible for their pets and must follow stadium rules for animals. See Details

Aug 29

Annual PAWS Chicago 5K Walk/Run

Chicago, IL

Annual PAWS Chicago 5K Walk/Run Bring the whole family to participate in this annual walk, Chicago’s largest dog-friendly charity event! In addition to the race, there will be dog agility courses, raffles, entertainment, treats, a dog spa and pools, and more. Opening ceremonies include a parade of adoptable pets! See Details

Aug 30

Bark in the Park

Elk Grove Village, IL

Bark in the Park Enjoy an afternoon of activities, shopping and socializing with your favorite four-legged friends! Participate in the pooch parade, make a craft for your dog, and visit over 20 booths offering products and services to help keep your pup happy and healthy. CGC testing will be available on site for a fee. The event is presented by Elk Grove Park District and Elk Grove Veterinary Emergency. See Details

Sep 5–6

Ashley Whippet Invitational — K-9 Frisbee World Championships

Naperville, IL

Ashley Whippet Invitational — K-9 Frisbee World Championships The Ashley Whippet Invitational is a two-day, public K-9 frisbee (disc-dog) competition where dozens of human-and-dog teams compete and spectators are welcome. The event traditionally runs over Labor Day weekend and features qualifying teams from across the U.S. and abroad; admission and parking are free for spectators. See Details

May 13, Jun 10, Jul 8, Aug 12, Sep 9

Wednesday Yappy Days at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery & Eatery

Springfield, IL

Wednesday Yappy Days at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery & Eatery Yappy Days is a monthly K-9 social held May through September, featuring themed nights, dog-centric vendors, live music and a free photobooth. Dogs are welcome on the patio and in the bocce garden (leashed and crowd‑friendly). See Details

Sep 13

Tails on the Trails at The Morton Arboretum

Lisle, IL

Tails on the Trails at The Morton Arboretum In addition to select Dog Admission Days, the Arboretum also host Tails on the Trails select dates each year. Guests are invited to explore the Arboretum’s scenic trails alongside their dogs while enjoying a special pet expo featuring dog-focused vendors from local businesses and organizations. Dogs must be leashed, remain on marked trails, and avoid restricted areas to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors See Details

Oct 4

Aurora Pooch Parade

Aurora, IL

Aurora Pooch Parade Participants are invited to walk their leashed dogs along a designated route, dressed in fun costumes or themed attire, while spectators cheer and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The event includes photo opportunities, vendor booths, and activities for all ages! The first 125 registrants are guaranteed a spot in the parade and will have the chance to compete for titles including Biggest Dog, Smallest Dog, Best Costume, Twinsies (Owner & Dog), Most Energetic, and Fan Favorite. See Details

Mar 2–Oct 26, only

Paws in the Park at Cantigny Park

Wheaton, IL

Paws in the Park at Cantigny Park Mondays from March through October are special days for dog lovers to explore the park’s beautiful gardens and grounds with their canine companions. Dogs must be friendly, well-socialized, and kept on a leash at all times, and owners should bring proof of up-to-date vaccinations. While pups are welcome outdoors, they aren't permitted inside buildings, and visitors are asked to clean up after their dogs using the provided sanitation stations. A $6 parking fee applies. Note that Monday holidays are excluded from Paws in the Park days. See Details

May 9–Oct 31

Wine on the Hill

Peru, IL

Wine on the Hill Enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery of the Illinois Valley and your favorite August Hill & ISC wines while hanging out on our spacious hillside. Wine flights, wine by the bottle and a snack picnic box will all be available. See Details

Nov 13

PAWS Chicago Annual Fur Ball

Chicago, IL

PAWS Chicago Annual Fur Ball Bring Fido to Chicago’s premier pet-friendly black tie gala! Set at the legendary Drake Hotel, guests and their canine companions walk the red carpet, participate in live and silent auctions, and enjoy a dinner buffet and dancing. Four-legged guests will enjoy an evening of indulgences as well, including dinner served in crystal goblets at the dog buffet. Human guests be 21+ to attend the event. See Details

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