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    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 Dog Admission Day at Morton Arboretum
    Sep 1

    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
    Pet Friendly Bark in the Park with Peoria Chiefs
    Select , Apr–Sep

    Bark in the Park with Peoria Chiefs

    Peoria, IL
    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
    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
    Sep 6

    Annual Mutt Strut

    Milan, IL
    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
    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 10

    Doodle Meet-up at Pup Social

    Chicago, IL
    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
    Sep 12

    Annual Dog Daze at Fishel Park

    Downers Grove, IL
    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
    Sep 12

    Barktoberfest at Mortimer's Roadhouse

    Poplar Grove, IL
    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
    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
    Sep 13

    Grumble Rumble at The Parched Pug

    Libertyville, IL
    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
    Sep 16

    Wags & Wine Tasting Event at Pup Social

    Chicago, IL
    Wags & Wine Tasting Event at Pup Social This dog-friendly wine tasting event features a curated flight of international wines from Louis Glunz Wine, with guests guided through a structured tasting experience exploring different regions, flavors and styles. While humans sip and socialize, dogs can play and mingle in the supervised off-leash park, making it a fun midweek outing for both wine lovers and their pups. See Details
    Sep 17

    Dog Mom’s Night Out at The Barkery

    Belleville, IL
    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
    Sep 19

    Annual Belleville Oktoberfest Wiener Dog Races & Costume Contest

    Belleville, IL
    Annual Belleville Oktoberfest Wiener Dog Races & Costume Contest Please note that only dogs participating in the race are permitted, and in race area of Oktoberfest only. The Costume Contest begins at 2:00 PM with the races following. Don't have a Dachshund? The Wanna-Be Race is open to any breed under 25 lbs. Event will be held rain or shine. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to local animal rescue. Registration is required. See Details
    Sep 19

    Paws in the Park

    Highland Park, IL
    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
    Sep 19

    Paws on the Pier

    Waukegan, IL
    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
    Sep 18–20

    Peoria Oktoberfest

    Peoria, IL
    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
    Sep 20

    Case Creek Wagging Tails on Trails Fall Festival Run/Walk

    Coal Valley, IL
    Case Creek Wagging Tails on Trails Fall Festival Run/Walk Leashed dogs are welcome to run or walk with you on this scenic 5K trail through pastures and woodlands around Case Creek Valley. Participants will receive a custom T-shirt, a finisher dog tag, a custom race bib, and a delicious treat at the end. Hydration stations for people and pups will be available. See Details
    Sep 24

    Ciderfest: A Seasonal Cider Celebration

    Chicago, IL
    Ciderfest: A Seasonal Cider Celebration Dogs are welcome to join guests at this 21+ cider tasting event featuring a wide selection of local, regional, and national ciders. Sample seasonal and traditional styles while enjoying fall flavors and a festive atmosphere, with food available for purchase, including gluten-free options. Tickets include cider tastings and a commemorative tasting glass. See Details
    Sep 26

    Daughters of Penelope | Thalia's Steps of Strength 5K Walk

    Oak Brook, IL
    Daughters of Penelope | Thalia's Steps of Strength 5K Walk Leashed dogs are welcome to join this family-friendly 5K walk and charity run! Participants can enjoy a morning of movement and community with live music, food trucks, sweet treats, balloon twisting, and an animal artist. Strollers are also welcome, making this a fun event for the whole family. See Details
    Saturdays in Sep

    Puppy Basics Class at Pup Social

    Chicago, IL
    Puppy Basics Class at Pup Social This puppy training workshop teaches the foundational skills young dogs need to become confident, well-mannered companions. Participants will learn essential commands, positive reinforcement techniques, puppy socialization guidance and strategies for addressing common behaviors, with hands-on practice and a Q&A led by a Pup Social trainer. Attendees also receive 15% off future training packages purchased the day of the workshop. See Details

    Do you know of a pet friendly event we've missed? to BringFido!

    Illinois