With the ‘dog days’ of summer coming to an end, Windmill Island Gardens is excited to announce the return of the popular Bark in the Park event! This Saturday, August  24, join us from 9:30am – 1:00pm to celebrate your dog’s special day! Bark in the Park is  proudly presented by Paws in the City and Mapleview Animal Hospital. 

This Saturday, August 24, dogs, dog owners, and dog lovers alike are all invited to visit Windmill Island Gardens to not only enjoy the beautiful summer scenery, but to learn about all the best places in town to bring your pup, too! Over 25 booths will be set up by local animal hospitals, groomers, trainers, accessory crafters, treat bakeries, and so much more, with special guest Abby Klingberg, a local trainer and National Competitor, who will be leading live dog agility demonstrations from exciting agility to flipping disc dogs every half hour all throughout the event! Agility demonstrations are sponsored by Paws in the City. 

Attendees and their dogs can pick up their welcome ‘doggy bag’ full of goodies and surprises from event sponsors, test their pup’s agility skills, splash in some sprinklers, get a free caricature drawn, and even get a free frozen treat courtesy of the Holland Polar Patrol from 12:15pm - 1:00pm! Attendees who bring their furry friends along will also have the chance to get a free digital download professional portrait of their dog taken by a professional local photographer! 

Regular park admission rates of $12 for adults and $6 for ages 3 – 15 will be in effect during Bark in the Park. Guests under the age of 3, all dogs, and Holland residents with proof of residency enter the park free! All park attractions will be open during the event including the de Zwaan windmill, carousel, street organ, and gift shop. Please note, dogs cannot enter the windmill or the gift shop, and they must remain on leashes for the duration of the event. 

Bark in the Park could not be put on without the help of our generous co-sponsors, Paws in the City and Mapleview Animal Hospital! “Paws in the City is excited for the second Bark in the Park event and delighted to see more business participating!!” Said Paws in the City owner, Tracy VanOpstall. “We can’t wait to see you and your dog at Windmill Island!” Paws in the City serves the greater Holland area with dog daycare, training, and grooming services. 

“Mapleview is honored to sponsor this PAWSOME event for a second year!” Says Mapleview Animal Hospital owner, Angi Shelley. “We are excited to connect with the 

community and celebrate the special bond between dogs and their humans. Come say ‘hey’…or woof’!” Mapleview Animal Hospital is a family-owned veterinary office whose staff provides exceptional healthcare for your furry companions. During the event, be sure to stop by our presenting sponsors booths to learn more about what they can provide for your pets, and enjoy fun games, and giveaways galore! 

For more details on Bark in the Park and other upcoming events at Windmill Island Gardens, visit www.windmillisland.com. Windmill Island Gardens is open daily from 9:30am - 6:00pm (last admission sold at 5:00pm) through October 1. Admission rates are $12 for adults and $6 for ages 3 – 15. Current admission rates will be in effect during Bark in the Park.