2022 Pet Friendly Events in Springfield
One of the joys of living in Springfield are the outdoor events and festivals that happen throughout the year. Attending an outdoor event is even better with your favorite furry friend. Bringing your dog to a pet friendly public event provides many benefits to your dog.
Mental stimulation
Physical exercise
Socialization
Behavioral Training
Think about what your dog will need while attending an event and plan ahead. Perhaps a collapsible or inflatable water bowl and some bottled water will be needed if water is not readily available. Make sure the leash is in good condition and check retractable leashes and leads to ensure they are still strong and the moving parts are still in good working order. Bring some treats to reward your dog for good behavior. Most importantly, don’t forget your smartphone or camera so you can capture the memories you create with your pet.
Farmer’s Markets
Greater Springfield Farmers’ Market
Tuesdays and Thursdays (April to October)
Saturdays (all year long)
8:00am to 12:00pm
Battlefield Mall Parking Lot
Corner of Glenstone and Battlefield
Farmers Market of the Ozarks
Saturdays
8:00am to 1:00pm
Farmer’s Park Pavilion
2144 E. Republic Road
Springfield, MO 65804
C-Street City Market
April through October
Saturdays- 9:00am to 2:00pm
Thursdays- 4:00pm to 8:00pm
321 E. Commercial St
Springfield, MO 65803
June 2022
Willard Freedom Fest-Dog Show
June 25, 2022
12:00pm to 10:00pm
218 W Jackson St, Willard, MO
The parade kicks off at 12:00pm on Jackson Street, and the celebration continues ALL DAY in Jackson Street Park. Hundreds of craft, sales, and yummy vendors, bounce houses, a pool party at the Aquatic Center, cornhole, kids watermelon eating contest, and of course... FIREWORKS! Dog Show is at 2:30pm.
July 2022
Bark in the Park
July 17, 2022
10:00am to 2:00pm
Phelps Grove Park
A fun and relaxing day in Phelps Grove Park with your family and beloved canine. Enjoy music and other activities at the Canine Vendor Village. All ages are welcome and proceeds benefit Cruse Dog Park. This event is held by The Springfield-Greene County Park Board.
September 2022
DogFest
September 25, 2022
10:00am to 2:30pm
Chesterfield Park
A canine extravaganza! Everyone, including the family dog is invited for free fun and activities at Chesterfield Park. DogFest features dog agility demonstrations, expert seminars, police K-9s, therapy dogs, a dog fashion show, a peanut butter lick-off, and canine-related vendors and nonprofits. All proceeds benefit Cruse Dog Park and the event is presented by The Springfield-Greene County Park Board.
October 2022
Rescue One's 8th Annual The Fast & The Furriest
October 8th, 2022
10:00am to 1:00pm
Tie & Timber Beer Co.
1451 E Cherry St, Springfield, MO 65802
Grab your crew and join us for Rescue One's family friendly 8th Annual The Fast and the Furriest! Enjoy a fun morning walking or running around the beautiful Rountree neighborhood. This event is for animal lovers and athletes of all ages and experience levels. We love to see your furry friends as long as they are well-socialized and are on a leash (retractable leashes are not allowed). Race options include 1 mile, 5k or virtual. All proceeds benefit Rescue One!
All Year Long
Not necessarily an event, but the following locations are pet-friendly and are a fun way to spend time with your family, friends, and pets.
Fantastic Caverns
4872 N Farm Rd 125
Springfield, MO 65803
Fantastic Caverns is a ride-through cave tour located just north of Springfield. The cave was originally discovered by a farmer’s dog in 1862 and is still dog friendly to this day. Dogs can ride on the tour as long as they are well behaved and on a leash.
Bass Pro Shops
1 Bass Pro Drive
Springfield, MO 65807
Springfield, Missouri is where Bass Pro Shops all started. The Outdoor World store on South Campbell is dog-friendly. Take your canine friend with you as you shop for outdoor gear and take time to view the aquariums. Please note that pets are not allowed at the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium adjacent to Bass Pro Shops.
