Celebrate pets and people at Barkapalooza

Enjoy pet and family-friendly fun while supporting animals in need during the West Suburban Humane Society’s Barkapalooza!

Set for Sunday, Sept. 28 at Lisle Community Park, 1825 Short Street in Lisle, the event kicks off with a Rescue Run 5K at 8 a.m., followed by the Waggin’ Tails Walk at 9:30 a.m. and a Rescue Fest from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

This year the West Suburban Humane Society has set a goal to raise $100,000 at Barkapalooza 2025.

“Whether you prefer food trucks or running, making art with your pet or listening to local musicians, there really is something for everyone,” said Zoe McGrath, Director of Development for the West Suburban Humane Society. “For people who like to stay active, the Rescue Run 5K is a chip-timed walk/run with time awards overall and by age group. All Rescue Run participants will receive a performance fit shirt and finisher medal, as well as entry to Rescue Fest. Our Waggin’ Tails Walk is a 1-mile walk for families and crowd-friendly pets. All Waggin' Tails walk participants will be eligible for fundraising awards, as well as entry to Rescue Fest.”

Rescue Fest includes live music and other entertainment, an artisan market, food trucks, a bake sale, activities to enjoy with your dog, a Wags-2-Riches Raffle, interactive pet art, a pet costume parade and the Barkminster Dog Show with pet contests.

“Barkapalooza is a way to come together for a common goal and celebrate above and beyond rescue care,” McGrath said. “It all makes an impact — all proceeds directly support Western Suburban Humane Society’s lifesaving work for homeless dogs and cats.”

Among the sponsors helping to make this event a success is Gerald Subaru of Naperville.

“We are so grateful to partner with Gerald Subaru of Naperville — their support makes a big impact and helps to make Barkapalooza possible,” McGrath said. “As a community-centered and grass-roots organization, we can't do what we do without amazing community members like the people at Gerald Subaru of Naperville.”

Gerald Subaru of Naperville is looking forward to being part of Barkapalooza 2025.

“Barkapalooza is more than just a fun event — it’s an opportunity to make a real difference for animals and the community,” said Donna Lawler of the Gerald Auto Group. “We’re proud to support this incredible day and excited to see the positive impact felt by everyone involved.”

For more information on Barkapalooza, visit wshs-dg.org. For more information on Gerald Subaru of Naperville, visit geraldsubarunaperville.com.