We didn’t have to look far for places you and your pup can break out your matching ugly Christmas sweaters this month. December’s dog-friendly Charlotte events include pup portraits with Santa, a festive trail run, a reindog parade and opportunities to shop two books by and for Queen City dog lovers.
Pictures with Santa
- Ho, ho, ho
- Fa la la la la
- And a partridge in a pear tree
If you’re looking for a place to take your dog’s picture with Santa, you’ll find plenty of options in our round-up of more than 40 spots for holiday pet portraits this season. We’ve got paid and free options as well as do-it-yourself and professional events in settings ranging from breweries to dog bakeries to area shopping malls and more. There’s literally someplace to snap your pup’s pic every day until Christmas.
Gone Dogs Book Signing
- Saturday, Dec. 14, 2019
- 12 - 2 pm
- Wall of Books in Cornelius
- Free
If you didn’t get a chance to meet the Charlotte duo behind Gone Dogs: Tales of Dogs We’ve Loved at the book’s launch party in early November, you’ve got another chance this month. You can pick up a signed copy of the book – which celebrates the one-of-a-kind bond between dogs and their humans – at Wall of Books in Cornelius.
Reindog Parade 2019
- Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019
- Walk begins at 5:10 pm
- Camp North End
- Free
Camp North End kicks off Mistletoe Market with the second annual Reindog Parade. Dress your dog in his or her holiday best and join other pups and their people for a 0.6-mile loop around the property. Arrive early if you want to enter the costume contest. There’ll be prizes for most original, best holiday card and pup culture. Stick around after the parade to enjoy holiday treats, decorations and more.
We Believe Santa 5k Dog Jog
- Saturday, Dec. 14, 2019
- 12:30 pm
- U.S. National Whitewater Center
- $30 through Dec. 12
Leash up your pup and head to the U.S. National Whitewater Center for this four-legged friendly 5k trail run. Human and canine participants are both encouraged to wear their festive best, so don’t forget your red coats, white beards and ugly Christmas sweaters. There’ll be awards for the top three male and female dogs as well as best-dressed Santa, Mrs. Claus, Santa dog and more.
