A Closer Bond Is the New Host of the Sweet Pea Pet Parade!

A Closer Bond Dog Training and Learning Center, with two Palatine locations, is thrilled to be the new host of the Sweet Pea Pet Parade. The parade is an annual tradition in downtown Palatine that takes place during Palatine Street Fest.

The Palatine Street Fest is Friday, Aug. 25-Sunday, Aug. 27. The parade will step off at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 27 at the corner of Slade and Greeley streets - right next to the Towne Square in downtown Palatine.

Participants who are pre-registered for the event, will be eligible to compete with their pets in the following categories:

1) Best Owner/Pet Look Alike

2) Best Homemade Costume

3) Best Store Bought Costume

4) Best Singer

5) Best Hairstyle

6) Best Trick

To pre-register your pet to enter one of the pet competitions, visit downtownpalatine.org/sweet-pea/.

All well-behaved pets are welcome, and registration and paddle pickup will begin at 10 a.m. Please note: To be a part of the judging contest, registration is required. If you would simply like to march in the parade - show up before the parade kicks off at 11 a.m. and join the fun.

"I am honored that the Downtown Palatine Business Association asked us to take over this family-friendly tradition that gives area residents a chance to show off their furry family members," said A Closer Bond Founder Katy Cushing. "I love seeing everyone's faces light up when they see pets dressed up, parading down the street."

If you would like to be a sponsor of the 2023 Sweet Pea Pet Parade, email Sandy at sandy@acloserbond.com by Monday, Aug. 14. If you don't have a pet or don't choose to enter the parade - but would still like to show your support for this annual event - bring your family and friends to watch and help our contest judges by cheering on your favorite participants.