Cary is going to the dogs, thanks to the SPCA of Wake County.
This year for the first time, the SPCA K9-3K Dog Walk & Woofstock, the state’s largest dog walk event, will be held in Cary, after being held for the past 16 years in downtown Raleigh.
The record-breaking crowd will gather at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary on Saturday, April 2, as more than 4,000 animal lovers and their dogs walk and raise money for local homeless pets.
“This event has grown exponentially over the last few years, and this year we hope to raise $250,000 for local homeless pets. Being part of a record-breaking event in the history of North Carolina, and knowing that we’re doing it all for good, is really exciting and humbling at the same time,” said Darci VanderSlik, spokesperson for the SPCA of Wake County.
“When thousands of passionate people come together for a cause they believe in, there is an indescribable sense of unity. It’s not something you have to be a part of, it something you want to be a part of.”
Obstacle Course, Food Trucks, Music
This year, the dog walk portion of the event will start at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, wrap around Symphony Lake and end back at the amphitheatre, where walkers will be greeted with live music from Raleigh-based Motown group, Swade and Satin.
There will be dog contests, including the first-ever SPCA Ruff Mutter obstacle course through mud, dirt and water for dogs and their humans to compete in timed races.
There will be food trucks, beer, music, family fun zones, and a vendor village for participants to browse with more than 30 pet-themed vendors.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and make a day of it!
Also on hand will be the 501st Legion, an all-volunteer international Star Wars costuming organization, known for its charity work.
“We are thrilled to host the K9 -3k Dog Walk and Woofstock, which will be one of the largest nonprofit events at Cary’s Booth Amphitheatre in 2016,” said Liz McDonald, general manager for the venue. “We are confident all two and four-legged guests will have a fantastic time in and around our beautiful venue.”
Participants are encouraged to register online, create a personalized page, make a fundraising goal and collect pledges to meet their goal now through the day of the event.
Register online now, at spcawake.org/walk or call (919) 532-2088.
What: SPCA K9-3K Dog Walk & Woofstock
When: Saturday, April 2 rain or shine
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Walk begins at 11 a.m.
Where: Koka Booth Amphitheatre
8003 Regency Parkway, Cary
More info: spcawake.org/walk