Dog Events in Illinois

When you want to really spoil your dog, or just meet other dog owners in Illinois who are as crazy about their pets as you, there’s no better place to bring Fido than a dog event. Attend any of the dog shows, agility competitions, costume parades, festivals or fundraisers in Illinois on our Dog Events Calendar and you’ll meet hundreds, maybe even thousands, of dog lovers. And since 70% of the events listed benefit humane societies, attending one is a great way to help homeless pets too.

Pet Friendly Annual PAWS Chicago 5K Walk/Run
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
Pet Friendly Pups & Palomas at Somerset at Viceroy Chicago
Pups & Palomas at Somerset at Viceroy Chicago Celebrate National Dog Day with your pup in style at this elegant yet playful afternoon on the patio of Somerset, located at the dog-friendly Viceroy Chicago! Enjoy refreshing handcrafted Palomas while Fido indulges in stylish treats. The afternoon’s highlight is a Dog Costume Contest, where pups can show off their most creative looks for a chance to win the grand prize. See Details
5K Fight Obesity, Walk With Me Leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners for this family-friendly 5K walk/run promoting health, wellness, and childhood obesity prevention. Participants of all ages can enjoy a non-competitive course while supporting community programs that encourage active, healthy lifestyles. Strollers are welcome, making this an event the whole family can enjoy together. See Details
Cruise with Roo See the beautiful waterfront in Chicago on a guided tour with your dog! Proceeds benefit Live Like Roo Foundation to support owners and their dogs through a cancer diagnosis. Be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible as this event always sells out. Also, it's recommended to get to the dock 30 minutes early. Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure. See Details
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
End of Summer Social at Pup Social Celebrate the end of summer with one last afternoon of off-leash fun at! Dogs and their people can enjoy supervised play, connect with fellow pet lovers, and explore local treat vendors and shopping opportunities. Family Pet will be on site with puppy wellness resources and seasonal care tips to help keep your dog healthy through the fall. See Details
Evanston Celebrates the Tail End of National Dog Month with Harley Barke Dog Meditation This free, dog-friendly community gathering celebrates National Dog Month with a 20-minute guided meditation for people and their pups, led by Heaven Meets Earth Yoga Studio. No meditation experience is necessary. Guests can relax together on the lawn, then enjoy drinks, socializing and free dog treats while celebrating the bond between dogs and their people. See Details
Bark in the Park with Peoria Chiefs Bring your furry friend with you to the ballpark! Please visit their website for rules and regulations. See Details
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
Annual Mutt Strut Leashed dogs can join their owners at this community walk during the Milan Harvest Festival! The day will also feature local vendors, games, refreshments, giveaways, and activities for animal lovers of all ages. Participants can enjoy time with their pets while supporting the Quad City Animal Welfare Center and its mission to provide care and resources for homeless animals. See Details
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
Doodle Meet-up at Pup Social Doodles of all sizes are welcome for an open-format play session focused on socialization and fun. Pups can romp, explore and make new friends while their humans connect. Whether your Doodle is a social butterfly or still building confidence, all play styles and energy levels are welcome. See Details
Annual Dog Daze at Fishel Park Bring your pup to this annual festival featuring a non-competitive agility course, splash zone, pet pampering station, free pup cups, doggie fashion parade, photo booth, peanut butter licking contest, and more. Guests can also enjoy food vendors, pet vendors, music, and activities for the whole family. Friendly, well-behaved dogs are welcome and should remain under their owner's control throughout the event. See Details
Barktoberfest at Mortimer's Roadhouse Bring your furry friends on a leash to join in the fun at this event! There will be talented local crafters, music, delicious Oktoberfest-inspired food, entertaining tricks and exciting raffles. Plus, adoptable pets and a nearby dog groomer will be on site. See Details
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
Grumble Rumble at The Parched Pug Pug lovers are invited to this dog-friendly gathering celebrating everything Pug. Guests can enjoy food and treats for both people and dogs, a self-pour beer wall, and time to socialize with fellow Pug owners while supporting a rescue organization through event proceeds. Reservations are highly recommended. See Details
Dog Mom’s Night Out at The Barkery Celebrate the women who love and spoil their pups at this dog-friendly evening featuring local pet businesses, makers, boutiques, food vendors, shopping, and activities. Bring your four-legged companion for a night of socializing and fun while supporting Helping Strays through event proceeds and awareness efforts benefiting animals in need. See Details
Paws in the Park This celebration invites dogs and their humans to enjoy a fun-filled day of treats, activities and tail wags. Guests can explore local vendors, indulge in doggie treats, enter a costume contest, win paw-some raffle prizes, join dog training classes, and take part in an exciting sniff & find trail. Please visit their website to register. See Details
Paws on the Pier Enjoy a lakeside afternoon of music and community where guests can meet adoptable dogs, browse pet-focused local vendors, enjoy live music and games, and enter a basket raffle. There will be drink specials and food trucks. This family- and dog-friendly gathering brings animal lovers together for live entertainment and fundraising! See Details
Peoria Oktoberfest Your leashed pup is welcome to accompany you at this annual fall festival on the riverfront! Celebrate German traditions with Oktoberfest brews, a variety of food trucks, local vendors, live music and activities. Festival hours are Friday from 5 PM until 11 PM, Saturday from 12 PM until 11 PM, and on Sunday from 11 AM until 5 PM. See Details
Illinois