Bark in the Park returns to Windmill Island Gardens on Aug. 23. The event runs 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and is presented by Paws in the City, according to a community announcement.
The event invites dog owners and enthusiasts to enjoy the summer scenery while exploring various dog-friendly activities and resources. Over 25 booths will feature local animal hospitals, groomers, trainers, accessory crafters and treat bakeries.
Abby Klingberg, a local trainer and national competitor, will lead live dog agility demonstrations every half hour throughout the event.
Attendees can grab a welcome “doggy bag” filled with goodies from event sponsors. Dogs can test their agility skills, splash in sprinklers and receive a free caricature drawing. The Holland Police Department’s Polar Patrol will offer free frozen treats from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Bark in the Park returns to Windmill Island Gardens on Aug. 23.
Professional portraits of dogs will be available for free digital download, taken by a local photographer.
Admission rates for Bark in the Park are $13 for adults and $6 for children ages 3-15. Young children, all dogs, and Hollanders with proof of residency can enter the park free. All park attractions, including the de Zwaan windmill, carousel, street organ and gift shop, will be open during the event. However, dogs aren’t allowed in the windmill or gift shop and must remain on leashes.
Tracy VanOpstall, owner of Paws in the City, expressed excitement about sponsoring the event again this year.
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“We have enjoyed watching this event grow and attract more vendors and visitors each year,” VanOpstall wrote in the announcement. “We can’t wait to see you and your dog at Windmill Island. This year is sure to be another fun-filled day.”
For more information on Bark in the Park and other events at Windmill Island, visit windmillisland.com/programs.
This story was created by reporter Nida Tazeen, ntazeen@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Bark in the Park brings dog-friendly fun to Windmill Island
