Dog Daze to bring a tail-wagging good time to Fishel Park Sept. 14
The Downers Grove Park District promises a fun-filled afternoon for both dogs and their owners at the annual “Dog Daze” event on Saturday, Sept. 14, at Fishel Park.
This free event, presented by Community Bank of Downers Grove, will be noon to 3 p.m. at the park, 1036 Grove St. in downtown Downers Grove.
The event will feature a variety of engaging activities tailored specifically for dogs according to Dawn Hartman, director of marketing and community engagement for the Downers Grove Park District.
“Dog Daze is the perfect opportunity to treat your furry friends to a day out,” Hartman said.
For those pups with a sense of adventure, the noncompetitive agility course, sponsored by Enjoy Your Dog Inc., will be a highlight. Dogs of all skill levels can enjoy navigating obstacles while showing off their playful side.
If your dog prefers to cool off, the Splash Zone will be a hit. Sponsored by The Eric Hamilton Team at Guaranteed Rate, this water play area is designed for dogs to splash around and beat the heat. For a more relaxed experience, the pet pampering station offers a chance for some well-deserved TLC, while a 360-degree photo booth provides the perfect spot to capture memories of the day.
A crowd favorite, the peanut butter licking contest, will have separate divisions for small and large dogs. With three rounds scheduled throughout the day, this contest is sure to be as entertaining as it is tasty.
And for those stylish pups, the Doggie Fashion Show, presented by Community Bank of Downers Grove, invites them to dress up and strut their stuff down the runway. The Best Dressed Pup will be awarded a special prize!
While the dogs are busy enjoying their activities, there’s plenty to keep the humans entertained as well. Live music from Liz Berg and Paul Hala will fill the park with vibrant tunes from 12:30 to 3 p.m.
These two seasoned musicians from the Chicago scene will perform a diverse set, featuring both male and female vocals, guitars, and percussion instruments.
Foodies will appreciate the variety of vendors on-site, including the Dope Sandwich Food Truck, known for its grilled sammies, and the High Rollers Company offering rolled ice cream. Adult beverages, including beer, wine, and coolers, will be available for $7 each, with all beverage tips going to support the West Suburban Humane Society.
In addition to all the fun and games, attendees will have the chance to explore a range of pet-related booths. Vendors like Bredwell, Dogtopia, Live Like Roo Foundation, Pet Wants Hinsdale, RXBone, and Spay Illinois Pet Well Clinics will be on hand, offering products, services, and information for pet owners.
Sponsors and partners, including Community Bank of Downers Grove, Advocate Health Care, Blue Light Rain HVAC, Enjoy Your Dog, Inc., The Eric Hamilton Team at Guaranteed Rate, First Baptist Church of Downers Grove, Kim Moustis Group, Lacey Creek Supportive Living, Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, Trader Joe’s, and True Balance Karate, will also be present.
Parking for the event is available along Grove Street on a first-come, first-served basis, with additional parking at the Mochel Drive parking garage and Lincoln Center. Visitors are reminded to keep their dogs on a leash at all times, except in the designated Splash Zone and agility course area. For more information, visit dgparks.org.