Dog Events in Reston, VA

On Wednesdays, during regular daytime hours, leashed dogs are welcome in the gardens (only service dogs are permitted on other days). Each adult may bring one dog. All attendees must sign an Assumption of Risk and Rules of Participation form before entering. Dogs must be leashed at all times with a non-retractable leash no longer than 6 feet. Loaner leashes are available at the Admissions Desk, and adult handlers are responsible for keeping dogs under control and out of landscape beds.

Get ready for a spooktacular evening where pups and their people can strut their stuff in the costume contest, with prizes like overnight stays, dinners, and more awarded at 7:00 PM by local celebrity judges in categories such as most creative, most adorable, funniest, and honorable mentions. Furry friends will enjoy treats, while humans sip on festive Halloween-themed cocktails and treat their pups to special Puptails. Make a night of it and book a stay on site at the Fairmont Washington DC Georgetown!

Bring Fido for some fun indoor exercise with other pups. No reservations required, just drop in with your canine pal. Staff members will be on hand to show you how to use the agility and exercise equipment.

Celebrate Halloween with doggie trick-or-treating, treat stations and a costume contest benefiting Lucky Dog Animal Rescue. Every donation helps save at-risk dogs and cats.

Enjoy a Halloween-themed yappy hour featuring a dog costume contest, festive cocktails and specials, and opportunities to mingle with fellow dog lovers and their pups. The gathering also supports local animal rescue efforts and helps animals in need.

Lace up your sneakers and grab Fido's leash to participate in a walk with your furry friend. All skill levels are welcome; there will be light refreshments and social time with others afterward.

This dog-friendly holiday event invites guests to explore the Winter Lights Festival on foot, choosing a leisurely 1-mile stroll or a more challenging 3-mile walk among hundreds of illuminated displays. Visitors can enjoy a hot drink and take photos with Santa while experiencing the festive lights up close. There will be no onsite sales for Walk & Wag. All tickets must be purchased online in advance. If you want to enjoy the lights from the comfort of your car, the drive-through experience, Winter Lights Festival, begins on November 28th.

The Mantua community is the perfect setting for this annual Thanksgiving dash. You and Fido will wind along the 4-mile course through pretty neighborhoods and tree-lined pathways displaying the beautiful colors of fall. All participants will receive a custom Fairfax Turkey Trot T-shirt. Please note dogs and their owners should start in the back of the pack.

The Arthritis Foundation’s race is the original festive race for charity with your pup. It’s where you can strut your stuff in your favorite holiday costume. Bring a team of friends, family, and co-workers to run or walk. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash. Check-in starts at 8 AM and the race begins at 9 AM.

It's time to ring in the holiday season! There will be live holiday music, s'mores, hot cider, activities, local vendors and more! The Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at 5:30 PM. Leashed and well-behaved dogs are welcome.

Well-behaved dogs on non-retractable leashes are welcome to attend this annual tradition. Please note that a high volume of attendees is expected. This festive 1-mile parade features Scottish clans, bagpipers, dancers, and Terrier dog groups parading through historic streets, bringing a touch of Scotland to the holiday season. Enjoy the rich cultural heritage, vibrant tartans and holiday cheer as part of Alexandria’s holiday festivities.

Well-behaved dogs on non-retractable leashes are welcome at this annual parade that features beautifully decorated boats decked out in festive lights and creative holiday themes. Watch as dozens of vessels parade by, competing for awards like "Best in Show" and "Most Holiday Cheer." The parade route stretches for one mile along the waterfront.

The Arthritis Foundation’s race is the original festive race for charity with your pup. It’s where you can strut your stuff in your favorite holiday costume. Bring a team of friends, family, and co-workers to run or walk. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash. Check in starts at 8 AM and the race begins at 9 AM.

On two select Sundays this holiday season, bring your furry friends to strike adorable poses with Santa! Pet Photos will be located in Nordstrom Court, First Level. Best Entrance: P1 in the garage, Nordstrom side. Use the mall entrance from the garage, between Lacoste and Bath & Body Works. Photos will be taken and available for purchase at this event. Reservations aren't required.

Experience the magic of Christmas with Fido! Visitors receive a free 4x6" photo with Santa. Other photo packages will be available for purchase. Advance reservations are highly recommended and can go quickly. Hours vary by store.

Bring Fido to the patio for Yappy Hour every Sunday! Guests can enjoy drink and food specials, dog treats, and the chance to make some new puppy pals.

Join a gentle, all-levels yoga session surrounded by the joy of puppies and dogs. Stretch, breathe, and connect while supporting spay, neuter, and rescue programs. All friendly dogs welcome—must be up to date on vaccinations, and owners must email proof prior to the event.

Bring your pup to experience a beautiful festival of holiday lights! Scheduled dates for 2026 are November 16, 17, & 24, and December 1, 2, 28 & 29. Fido is welcome to join you on designated nights while you walk through the elegant garden trail and admire the lighted trees and displays featuring nature, winter and holiday themes. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets must be purchased online. Please check their website for all rules and regulations.

Take a 3.5-mile drive with Fido through 450 illuminated displays and holiday-lit trees! Advance ticket purchase is required for this event. Guests are invited to bring snacks and drinks to enjoy while visiting the lights. Your pup must remain in the car with your at all times. Tickets must be purchased in advance. If you want to experience the lights on foot, there will be a special dog-friendly, no-traffic night on November 23rd called Winter Lights Festival Walk & Wag.

Experience 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car; just turn off your headlights and follow the magical glow! Fido must remain in the car with you at all times.