(Posted Aug. 19, 2022)
WAG! Fest presented by Hollywood Feed returns to the Darby Bend Lakes Area of Prairie Oaks Metro Park on Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a day of dog‐friendly activities. The event is free.
The festival, now in its 16th year, is expected to draw thousands of dogs and dog lovers and feature dozens of activities, demonstrations, and more than 80 local vendors. There will be trails for walks, a lake for dogs to swim in, and an ice castle to cool off in. Additionally, several local rescues and shelters with booths will help to educate aspiring dog parents on the adoption process.
“WAG! Fest has always and always will be a day for the dogs in our lives, and it is so clear that the dogs are fully in tune with that sentiment as soon as they arrive. It is the happiest day for dogs, and it’s the best day for dog parents to find the best of everything their companion might need,” said Mike Poleway of Event Marketing Group, the company that produces the festival.
“And the beautiful natural settings of Prairie Oaks Metro Park provide the perfect place to bring people, dogs and fun together.”
This year’s WAG! Fest features everything from educational advice to live demonstrations and includes the following activities:
• The WAG! Marketplace includes booths of products, services, and samples from pet retailers, veterinarians, doggie day care centers, pet photographers, groomers, trainers, and clubs and organizations dedicated to the health and well‐being of canines.
• Dogs can go for a swim at the Germain Subaru of Columbus Water Bark Beach off‐leash swim area or just enjoy the cool oasis of two-and-a-half tons of ice at the Atlas Butler Ice Castle. New this year, Gated Dock will provide dock diving instruction.
• Guests can meet experts from various area rescue groups to learn about the best four‐legged match for their home and lifestyle at the Hollywood Feed Meet‐The‐Breed area.
• Southern Ohio Flying K9s will present disc demonstrations and freestyle performances at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
• Sky Dogs will present dog agility demonstrations at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Dogs taking part in WAG! Fest must be at least 16 weeks old, current on vaccinations (must display current license and rabies tags), and capable of socializing with humans and dogs of all sizes. Dogs must be leashed except when at the Water Bark Beach swim area. Leashes must be no longer than six feet. Retractable leashes are discouraged. Prong, pinch, spiked and choke collars are not permitted.
The Darby Bend Lakes Area of Prairie Oaks Metro Park is located at 2755 Amity Road in Hilliard. Additional information is available at www.WAGFEST.com.
