Chicago is one of the dog friendliest cities in the country, and just because cold weather is coming in doesn’t mean the fun has to stop for you and your dog. Fall doesn’t last long in the Windy City, so leash up your dog and get out there to make the most of it while the leaves are still falling and the mercury is still hovering above freezing. Read on for the best autumn dog events in Chicago.
The best dog events in Chicago this fall
Dog’s Day at the Farm (all season long)
Load up the car and take a day trip to the country for a visit to Richardson Adventure Farm, where the whole family (polite, leashed dogs included) can enjoy a pumpkin patch, hay rides, hot apple cider, the world’s largest corn maze, oh, and did we mention the 160′ zipline? Chicago dog sitters know your city dog will love taking in the sights and smells of the country, and you’ll love taking advantage of this eccentric family fun center.
Famous Fido Charity Bingo Night at Hamburger Mary’s | November 3rd
A different kind of “dog friendly event,” this one does not welcome your canine pal, but it benefits homeless dogs of Chicagoland through the Famous Fido rescue, and it’s a whole heap o’ fun! Leave your dog at home with a sitter for the evening, and gather a group of human friends for a fun night of bingo with drag diva Velicity Metropolis as your host. Drink specials and cheeky banter ensure a fun night out to benefit a great cause: helping care for homeless pets as they await forever homes.
Greyhounds Only RAVE & Reunion | November 8th
This celebration of rescued greyhounds is your chance to see hundreds of these strong, graceful dogs gathered together in one place. If you’re a greyhound guardian, you can bring your dog along for games, treats, and a timed Radar Run. If you don’t have a greyhound, you’re still welcome as a spectator to enjoy silent and live auctions, an onsite dog-and-human portrait studio, and the crowning of the Greyhound King and Queen. Who knows, after attending this fabulous fall event, you may not stay greyhound-free for long.
A brisk dog walk along Lake Michigan (all season long)
Chicago’s lakefront trail boasts almost 20 miles of scenic walking along the shores of Lake Michigan, and fall is the perfect time to explore it without getting overheated. Almost anywhere along the trail will provide a healthy walk with great people- and dog-watching, and you can customize the length and intensity of your trek to you and your dog’s fitness levels. Perhaps you’ll stroll along the Museum Campus, or head to one of the city’s fabulous dog beaches, open for year-round, off-leash fun. Take along some snacks to power you through the walk, and remember to bring layers for you and your dog just in case the weather changes; it’s always cooler by the lake!
Wreathing of the Lions | November 28
Bundle up the kids (human and canine), leash up the dog , and head down to the Art Institute to watch the wreathing of the lions. This annual tradition welcomes the holiday season with live music, complimentary hot chocolate, and the adornment of the museum’s famous lions with evergreen wreaths. You can’t take Fido inside the museum, so after the wreathing ceremony, take a walk to nearby Grant Bark Park for some off-leash fun.
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