HELL’S KITCHEN — The “world’s biggest festival for dogs and their humans” is heading to the Hudson River Park this spring.
On May 22, dog-lovers and their canine companions are invited to the third annual BarkFest at Pier 97, where pets and people alike can take in live music and a “futuristic pup fashion show,” meet Instagram-famous dogs and enjoy other canine-centric activities.
Dubbed the "World's Fair" of dog experiences, this year’s BarkFest marks the third year and third venue for the festival, which started with a dog-friendly movie night at Madison Square Park in 2014.
Last year’s festival, held at a pier in Williamsburg, drew more than 10,000 dogs and their owners, an event release said.
To play on this year’s World's Fair theme, guests will be able to “celebrate dog-focused triumphs and pop-culture” at three different “pawvillions” set up around the pier.
A “shape up pawvillion” will offer activities like “pupp putt mini golf” for dogs and their owners, as well an off-leash obstacle course in which dogs can traverse miniature models of famous sites like the Great Wall of China and the Nile River.
Artists will be on hand inside the arts and culture “pawvillion” to draw caricatures of dogs and their owners, not far from a “pawp-art” exhibit showcasing dog-focused paintings and sculptures, and a “Sniff Around the World” activity that allows attendees to “investigate scents… ranging from pot roast to a sandy beach.”
The innovation “pawvillion,” meanwhile, will feature an assemblage of “futuristic fire hydrants” and dog-centric tech offerings.
Both dogs and owners can also enjoy a variety of food and beer at the festival.
Guests will also be able to take in an exhibit focused on famous dogs from history as they wait in line to meet the celebrity dogs attending BarkFest.
Tickets for BarkFest 2016 are on sale now, with general admission tickets for one human and up to two dogs going for $30, and a VIP ticket going for $45.
