Let’s discover six go-to pet-friendly events in this Midwestern city!
1. Chicago French Bulldog Rescue’s Ugly Sweater Party
If you’re a french bulldog lover living in Chicago, then we’ve got great news for you! Every year (with 2022 being the 4th annual) the Chicago French Bulldog Rescue organized an Ugly Sweater Party. This party is both human and pet-friendly. Each ticket allows just one human, and one dog. Proceeds go to the Chicago French Bulldog Rescue’s animal rescue and welfare efforts. The Ugly Sweater Party, hosted annually in December, features a Wine Pull, silent auctions, photo opportunities, and raffles. There’s even a “Best Dressed” award for the pupper with the best (ugliest) sweater!
2. Doodle Days at Sit Social
Sit Social just might be Chicago’s preeminent doggie lounge, hotel, spa, and social club. Doodle Days at Sit Social are RSVP only events for puppers and their pet parents. These pet-friendly events in Chicago feature an indoor/outdoor doggie play area, trivia, prizes, and even a pupcake. At Doodle Days at Sit Social, you can get to know other doodle pet parents, and introduce your doodle to new doggie best friends. While there, you can take a look at the gift shop for some fun pupper presents. Sit Social even have their own “Barkery,” with baked fresh treats for your furry friend, and their doggie friends.
3. Mercury Canine Cruise
If you’re visiting Chicago, you don’t want to miss out on a skyline cruise. See the city from a whole new vantage point—with your canine companion—on a Mercury Canine Cruise. This pet-friendly event in Chicago is all about the boats, the water, and the pups. As you and your pup sojourn across Chicago’s waterways, expert hosts give you the scoop on Chicago. Complete with indoor and outdoor spaces, you and your dog can enjoy the city like never before. And, every fall, Mercury Canine Cruise host their own Howl-O-Ween Canine Cruise! So, not only can you travel in style over the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, you can do it in costume! If you’re a pet parent in Chicago, a pet-friendly city cruise is not something you want to miss!
4. PAWS Chicago Fur Ball
One of the biggest fundraising events of the year, the PAWS Chicago Fur Ball is the place to be in November. Hosted annually, this pet-friendly event in Chicago has been operating for 21 years as of 2022. Organized by PAWS Chicago, this black tie event encourages the best dress for both humans and their furry friends. At the PAWS Chicago Fur Ball, you’ll get the chance to donate to animals in need. You’ll also have the opportunity to pamper your pet. That’s right: the Fur Ball includes puppy “pawdicures,” doggie massages, a dog buffet (served in crystal goblets), and even dog-safe “spritzes” by Dog Spa. But, there’s more. Human attendees can bid on items at auction, with proceeds going directly to PAWS Chicago.
5. Windy City Pet Expo
This free pet-friendly event in Chicago happens annually in mid-July. Although the expo does not include any outdoor activities for your canine companion, there’s still plenty to do inside. With tons of vendors, groomers, trainers, veterinarians, and even on-site adoptions, you won’t get bored! The Windy City Pet Expo is both pet and family-friendly, with activities for both dogs and kiddos. Whether you live in Chicago, or you’re just visiting, this pet expo is not one to miss. Attendees can watch live showcases for obedience, lure coursing, and canine agility. You can also learn more about just about every aspect of pet ownership — from traveling with pets to feeding your furry friend — the Windy City Pet Expo has something for everyone!
6. Frenchie Friday at Sit Social
Yet another incredible pet-friendly event in Chicago organized by Sit Social. Frenchie Fridays are, unsurprisingly, french bulldog-centric events hosted at Sit Social. On Frenchie Friday, both you and your Frenchie get the chance to meet other Frenchies and Frenchie enthusiasts. Tickets include a pupcake, fun trivia with prizes, and a doggie playdate for your Frenchie. If you’re a french bulldog lover living in Chicago, then Frenchie Fridays just might be the perfect event for you. Not only will your dog get to play with other dogs, but you’ll also get to meet other Frenchie-obsessed pet parents! Could there be anything better?
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The 10 Best Dog Parks in ChicagoWhy is Chicago Called “The Windy City?”The Best Pet-Friendly Events in Columbus
