Celebrate National Pet Day at Dallas Farmers Market: Doggy Costume Contest, Rescue Events & Live Music

Join us this weekend at the Dallas Farmers Market as we celebrate National Pet Day (April 11) by giving our furry companions a little extra love and attention, as well as an opportunity to paw-sitively shine at the DFM Doggy Costume Contest. Bring your pup dressed as your favorite farmers market find, such as fresh fruit, eggs, sourdough, jam, honey, flowers, cheese, and more! The fun starts at 12:30 p.m. on both Saturday, April 11, and Sunday, April 12.

While at The Shed, make sure to visit some of our favorite vendors and retailers offering products made with your pets’ happiness in mind:

Cactus Cat Studio: Custom pet portraits and other charming pet-inspired items
Happy Tails Dog Food: Fresh, healthy dog food options made with no fillers or preservatives
Jack’s Premium: Desirable dog and cat favorites, like oven-baked treats and supplements
Lula Pup Shop (located at The Shops at Harvest Lofts): “Dog mom” and “dog dad” merch, plus fun bandanas and collars
Natural Buddy: Pet-safe shampoos in a variety of scents
Peanut Butter Dog Treats: Homemade treats that no dog can resist

Return the Support

Pets give us so much. Now it’s our turn to give back by visiting the DFM’s partner animal rescue organizations this weekend to learn how to donate food, blankets, or funds. You might even meet your new best friend!

Be Their Voice Rescue: (10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sunday) Take time to chat with representatives about this local rescue group that saves dogs from kill shelters and connects them with foster families.

Doodle Rock Rescue: (10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday) Meet amazing volunteers, learn more about their mission, ask questions about fostering or adoption, and find out how you can get involved in helping rescue dogs in need.

Haider’s Paws Forward: (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday) This Texas-based non-profit provides access to resources, veterinary care, and support for pet owners who are in crisis.

Hearty Paws Great Dane Rescue: (10:00 to 2:00 p.m. Saturday) Get to know gentle giant rescue Danes who are eager to meet you, as well as learn more about Hearty Paws and how you can help. They’re also offering FREE microchipping and registration for your pet. It is first-come, first-served while supplies last, so come by early!

The Happy Pet Project: (10:00 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday) Support this Texas-based nonprofit dedicated to ending companion animal overpopulation through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption, while promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare education.

The Dallas Police Department Mounted Unit will be visiting on Saturday at 11: 30 a.m., a balloon artist will wow on Sunday at 1:00 p.m., and there will be a Kids’ Activity on both Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Make sure to stop by the DHHS SNAP-Ed table from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday to discover healthy eating tips, as well as learn about Healthy Texas Week coming in May and SNAP benefits.

Grab your leash, bring your best furry friend, and celebrate them all weekend long. There’s something for every pet (and pet parent) to love at the Dallas Farmers Market!

P.S. This might be a special weekend at the DFM to highlight our four-legged friends, but we always welcome leashed pets in The Shed and on The Market patios. Please be courteous of others and BYOB (bring your own bag) to clean up after your adorable pet.

Live Music

Experience live music from local artists throughout the weekend at the Dallas Farmers Market, adding a lively soundtrack to your visit. Grab a bite, relax, and enjoy the tunes.

Saturday, April 11