14 events for DC-area dog lovers this summer

It’s time to paw-ty! Whether you’re a dog owner or a dog enthusiast, there is a variety of upcoming local events that’ll be a doggone good time this summer.

From puppy yoga and a dog-friendly drag show to pet-focused paint nights, where you can make a masterpiece depicting your furry friend, there’s so much to consider.

Here are 14 events worth attending to have fun with your pooch.

June 3: Paws on the Plaza

The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center (1961 Chain Bridge Rd., Tysons, VA 22102)

For the second time, Tysons Corner Center is hosting this free, dog-friendly event where pups of all ages are invited to roam the dog park. Expect obstacles and splash pads for Fido, and local vendors and a beer garden for Fido’s owner. There will also be a photo booth and the opportunity to get free caricatures of your pet. 

June 3: Barkfit Puppy Yoga

District Dogs Training (3210 Georgia Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20010)

Did someone say downward dog? For $15, join a group of dog lovers and owners with a session of yoga where all dogs are welcome. Mats are provided, but be sure to bring extra treats for your furry friends.

June 9: Bark After Dark

Bark Social (3822 Boston St., Baltimore, MD 21224)

In Baltimore’s Canton neighborhood, this dog-friendly drag show will pair fabulous drag queens and cocktails with pups. What more could you ask for? Food and drinks will be on hand for both you and your furry friend. All dogs must be registered with Bark Social and have valid vaccinations to enter the event. Tickets range from $20 for general admission to $120 for a reserved table for eight.

June 11: District Dogs Pug Palooza Pool Pawty

The Bark Park by District Dogs (3210 Georgia Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20010)

District Dogs is opening their private Bark Park to the public with sprinklers, pools, doggy cabanas and snacks. Tickets cost $5 for general admission for one human or $20 for one dog and up to two humans. Tickets will not be sold at the event.

June 14: Pride Pawty and Pawrade

The Chase at Bryant Street (680 Rhode Island Ave. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002)

Celebrate Pride Month with a party and parade that includes vendors and festivities with LGBTQIA+-owned businesses, giveaways and raffle prizes. General admission is free, though parade participation costs $10.

June 14: Dog Lovers Comedy

Bark Social (935 Prose St. N., Bethesda, MD 20852)

In partnership between Improbable Comedy and Bark Social, this comedy show and happy hour invites dogs, dog owners and dog enthusiasts to come together for a night filled with laughter. The event is recommended for ages 18 and older. Tickets cost $20 in advance thru June 13, while same-day general admission tickets cost $25.

June 15: Yappy Hour with District Dogs

metrobar (640 Rhode Island Ave. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002)

The outdoor beer garden, known as metrobar, will offer puppuccinos and “doggie beer” as well as plenty of treats, toys and belly rubs to go around at this free event.

June 24: K9s in the Vines

Hidden Hills Farm and Vineyard (7550 Green Valley Rd., Frederick, MD 21701)

The Animal Welfare League of Frederick County is partnering with the Hidden Hills Farm & Vineyard to host an afternoon of wine, dog games and training demonstrations. With $20 general admission tickets, the event will also include vendor stalls and a silent auction. Wine glasses are only guaranteed for the first 200 tickets sold. 

June 24: Pack Walk / Meet Up

United States National Arboretum (3501 New York Ave. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002)

Enjoy the fresh air while socializing your dog with friendly folks at this event. The free event is open to all dogs and their owners. 

June 25: Kids & Paws Festival

Shipgarten (7581 Colshire Dr., Mclean, VA 22102)

Grab a drink at the kid- and dog-friendly venue, Shipgarten. With free admission, this festival will offer a full playground and two moon bounces for children, plus an off-leash dog park for smaller and larger dogs. Get excited for over 40 beer and cider samples from local breweries, a photo booth, food, giveaways and competitions, as well as live music.

June 29: Paint Your Pet

RowHouse (69 Q St. SW, Washington, D.C. 20024)

For $45, enjoy a night of painting with all supplies included. The event organizer will create a stencil of your pet based on the photo you provide ahead of time. The event is located inside the Cambria Hotel at the RowHouse Restaurant.

July 12: Yappy Hour

Olde Dominion Tavern (5351 Merchants View Sq., Haymarket, VA 20169)

On the patio at Olde Dominion Tavern, enjoy complimentary appetizers, plus treats for pups. This free, reservation-based event is hosted once per month from May 3 until August 2.

July 23: Puppy Yoga

Humane Society of Northern Virginia (17983 Dumfries Shopping Plaza, Dumfries, VA 22026)

For pint-sized puppy play time, check out this event by the company of Puppies at the A3P Advocates Humane Society of Northern Virginia. Children are allowed to join as long as they’re 13 or older. This yoga is for all levels, but participants must bring their own mat. Tickets cost $30.

September 23: Paint Your Pet & Sip!

Woodlawn Press Winery (8733-B Cooper Rd., Alexandria, VA 22309)

Enjoy an evening of wine tastings and painting at this event. Tickets cost $65 with all paint supplies included.

Michelle Goldchain

Michelle Goldchain’s reporting has focused primarily on the D.C. area, previously working as Editor of Curbed DC for Vox Media and Audience Growth & Engagement Editor for Washington City Paper. She is the author of "D.C. by Metro: A History & Guide.” She also reports for Artsplained on YouTube.

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