7100 Statesville Rd., Huntersville
704/336-2472
www.charmeck.org [1]
COST: Free
Who knew there were so many dogs in Charlotte [2]? This festival got so big that it relocated from its former home in one of the city parks to the Metrolina Expo Center on the outskirts of town.
Though it’s billed as an event to promote off-leash dog parks, the festival has a far bigger reach than the local dog-park crowd. Vendors sell homemade dog biscuits, collars, leashes, bowls, and doggie clothing, and nonprofit animal rescues are on-site to increase awareness for spay/neuter and adoption programs.
It’s also the gala of the year for local dogs that come to sniff, bark, wag, and explore the park. A small off-leash area is set up for dogs that aren’t preoccupied with trying to win prizes—there are contests for best costume, largest dog, best trick, best bark, and best pet/owner look-a-like.
Links:
[1] http://www.charmeck.org
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/charlotte