Photo: Pet costumes at Barktoberfest"
Dress up the dog, bring the family and come meet some future best friends. Barktoberfest, a free celebration of Prince William County’s pets, is back for its fifth year on Saturday, Oct. 3.
Occoquan District Supervisor Kenny Boddye hosts the event from noon to 3 p.m. in the Tackett’s Mill Commuter Lot in Lake Ridge. It runs alongside the shopping center’s own Fall Festival and goes on rain or shine. No registration is required to attend.
The event is coming full circle this year. Boddye held the first Barktober, as it was originally called, at Tackett’s Mill in October 2022, and the event’s Eventbrite page bills this year’s gathering as a return to “where it all started.” In the years since, it has been held in other spots around the county, including Chinn Regional Library in 2023, as part of that library’s fall festival.
“Barktoberfest is one of my favorite events of the year,” Boddye said. “It’s a chance to meet fellow animal lovers, maybe discover your new best friend through a local rescue, and learn more about the incredible local organizations working every day to protect and care for animals in our community.”
What to expect
This year’s event will include:
• Animal adoptions
• Pet costume contest and photo booth
• Resources and services for pet owners
• Opportunities to support animal welfare in the county
• Swag and giveaways, including pet treats
• Dave’s Dogs Food Truck
Barktoberfest 2026 flyer.
Pet food drive and costumes
Attendees are encouraged to bring pet food for the Pet Food Drive, which offers a chance to win prizes. Donations help support animals in need, and it is an easy way to take part even if you are not bringing a pet of your own.
Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome. Costumes are encouraged for animals and their humans alike, so expect plenty of dressed-up dogs and a few dressed-up owners to match. The costume contest and photo booth are a good bet for anyone who wants a fall photo of their pet.
Exhibitors
More than a dozen animal-related nonprofits and businesses are scheduled to take part, giving attendees a chance to ask questions, learn about services and meet the people behind them. Exhibitors include Bogey’s Mix, Prince William SPCA, Scouting America Troop 102, Pet Nutrition Center, Prince William County Animal Services Bureau, Vindicated Pit Bull Rescue, PWC Dogs, Crossroads Animal Care Center, The Dog Eaze Inn, Beagle Rescue Education and Welfare (BREW), To The Rescue, Lunchbox Is On The Case, Dave’s Dogs and Communities for Youth.
Rescue groups and animal services will be on hand for anyone thinking about adding a pet to the family, and pet owners can pick up information on care, boarding and other local resources.
Want to be an exhibitor?
According to the event page, animal-related nonprofits and businesses can apply for a table through the Eventbrite listing. Nonprofits exhibit for free, while businesses are asked to donate $50 total to the Prince William County SPCA.
Fall Festival activities
The Tackett’s Mill Fall Festival will offer pumpkin decorating, games, crafts and other family-friendly activities from 1 to 3 p.m. Families can make a full afternoon of it by starting with the pets at noon and staying on for the seasonal activities.
If you go
What: Barktoberfest, presented by Supervisor Kenny Boddye
When: Saturday, Oct. 3, noon to 3 p.m. (rain or shine)
Where: Tackett’s Mill Commuter Lot, Tackett’s Mill Drive, Lake Ridge
Cost: Free
Register or learn more on the Barktoberfest 2026 Eventbrite page. Details on the Fall Festival are at tackettsmill.com. For event updates, follow Supervisor Boddye on Facebook.
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