GAINESVILLE, Ga. (March 16, 2022) – Join Main Street Gainesville for a tail-waggin’ good time Saturday, March 26, when the historic downtown square goes to the dogs with the return of Mutts on Main.
The annual pet expo is slated for 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and will highlight dog adoptions/fostering at the Hall County Animal Shelter, said Main Street Manager Nicole Ricketts.
“The downtown square is a pet friendly environment on any day, but this day we celebrate all things dogs – and there will be dogs everywhere!" she said. "Bring your dog, shop for your dog, enjoy other people’s dogs, enjoy dog entertainment and, hopefully, we’ll see as many dogs adopted as possible from our partners who work together as the main response teams in Gainesville-Hall County. In-person adoptions at the event will be hosted by the Hall County Animal Shelter. Follow the @DowntownGainesvilleGA Facebook page for more details!”
Ricketts said attendees – two-legged and four-legged – will have the opportunity to enjoy a noon fashion show highlighting local boutiques and dogs up for adoption, plus other pet contests like “Best Dressed”, “Best Trick” and “Look Alike”. One-hundred percent of proceeds from the $5 entry fee will support adoptions at the animal shelter.
“This community favorite, smaller expo-style event is a good way to encourage people to get some sunshine, enjoy each other and have plenty of space to move around, shop and enjoy the atmosphere of downtown," she said.
Before the fun starts on stage, begin your morning by visiting with the Hall County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit (11 a.m.). Then, enjoy live music by Becky Simon Band (1 p.m.); a disc dog show by K9’s in Flight (2 p.m.), culminating in a visit with the Gainesville Police Department’s furry K-9 officers (3 p.m.).
Ricketts added the expo will feature several pet-related vendors and artisans, offering everything from pet food and pet clothes to pet portraits. And a treat for the humans? Surrounding boutiques and shops will hold sidewalk sales throughout the day.
“We'll also have hot dogs, mini donuts and Paw Paws Peanuts for the humans, and cold treats from Frozen Frenzee for the pups!” she said.
Adding to the excitement will be staffers and volunteers with the City of Gainesville, who will have in the Main Street Gainesville booth free dog leashes and pet treats for the first 100 people to stop by, Ricketts said.
“We’re also selling Mutts on Main T-shirts,” she said, in addition to other Gainesville merch.
All dogs are welcome, but must be leashed. Waste bags will be located throughout the square to help preserve the beauty of downtown Gainesville.
Bradford Street will be closed during the event, and those traveling in the area are urged to drive carefully, and watch for pedestrians and pets.
For more information and updates, “Like” and follow @DowntownGainesvilleGA on Facebook.