Festival for Animals celebrates pets with music, fun activities

Pet lovers should mark their calendars for Sunday, Sept. 26 for Anderson Humane's annual Festival for Animals event (formerly named Pets-A-Palooza). The organization is thrilled to welcome attendees back to this in-person event and give them the opportunity to party with their pets.

The 2021 Festival for Animals kicks off at 11 a.m. Sept. 26 at Northwestern Medicine Field (Kane County Cougars stadium) in Geneva in the music garden and sections of the stadium. From midmorning to 5 p.m. pet lovers will enjoy a variety of entertainment and activities geared toward celebrating pets and their families.

"This year's event will be bigger than in previous years and will feature new vendors, two new musical acts and presentations on wildlife in the area and their importance in our communities," said Greg A. Mucha, director of corporate partnerships for Anderson Humane.

Festival for Animals will feature musical entertainment by Hi Infidelilty, an award-winning '80s rock cover band from the Chicago area that plays the biggest hits from the golden age of rock as well as the best new music. The Funcles (previously known as Crossfire) will serve as the opening act. This fun-loving, family-friendly party band covers a wide range of rock 'n' roll, pop, soul, country and singalong favorites.

The 2021 Festival for Animals will also feature a special Adoption Reunion event, which welcomes all those who have adopted an animal from Anderson to bring their pets and share their stories with others who have brought home a loving, furry family member. In addition, attendees can explore multiple vendor booths and pet-themed activities that both owners and their animals will enjoy. Proceeds from the event support Anderson Humane, but the main mission of Festival for Animals is to celebrate the bonds between owners and their pets.

"Any money raised at the event will benefit Anderson Humane and our operations, but it's not the focus of the day. Bringing people and animals together to connect for the betterment of all is really the emphasis of the event," Mucha said.

Generous donations from local sponsors like Gerald Subaru of North Aurora, are making this blowout event possible. Gerald Subaru sponsored the main stage for the event and helped Anderson bring in two powerhouse musical acts to entertain the crowd and attract a wider audience. The more people who learn about Anderson Humane and their important work, the more opportunities the organization has to touch the lives of animals in need.

"Gerald Subaru is excited to be part of an event that celebrates the deep connection between humans and animals," said Donna Lawler, Vice President of Gerald Auto Group. "We can't wait for people to enjoy a wonderful day outdoors with their pet.

For more information on Festival for Animals, visit www.andersonanimalshelter.org.

For more information on Gerald, visit www.geraldsubarunorthaurora.com.