Barktoberfest to return to Memorial Park in Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK — From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, and Sunday, Sept. 11, the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Barktoberfest event at Memorial Park, 31050 Woodward Ave., north of 13 Mile Road.

The entry fee is $5, of which a portion will benefit Oliver’s Foundation and the Detroit Dog Rescue, and the event promises fun for the whole family — human or canine.

“This Oktoberfest celebration is centered around craft beer, live music, pet related shopping and dog contests!” Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Director of Events Heather Zeller said in an email. “Whether you want to come out and enjoy the atmosphere or participate in a contest, Barktoberfest offers something for all dogs and their people (all dogs must be on a leash). It’s not every day you can listen to live music surrounded by hundreds of dogs!”

On Saturday, Sept. 10, Just 2 Guitars will play from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Cody Boggs Band will play from 3 to 6 p.m.

The contest schedule for Saturday includes a costume contest at 12:30 p.m., a best trick contest at 2 p.m., a small dog (15 pounds and under) run at 2:15 p.m., a wiener dog race at 4 p.m., and a chihuahua race at 4:15 p.m.

On Sunday, Sept. 11, Andy Patalan will play from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Back Street Affair will play from 3 to 6 p.m.

The contest schedule for Sunday includes a costume contest at 12:30 p.m., a pug run at 2 p.m., a corgi race at 2:15 p.m., a wiener dog race at 4:30 p.m., and a puppy dash (6 months and under) at 4:45 p.m.

Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shelly Kemp said that one of the chamber members will bartend and a DJ will keep the soundtrack going between bands.

For a small fee, Kemp said that dogs who like to chase can participate in a lure course, featuring a handkerchief on a pulley system. New this year, also for a small fee, dogs can participate in a pet-safe “dance club foam party.”

“It’s very silly,” she said.

Vendors will be on-site selling handmade apparel and other products for dogs, and nonprofits including rescues for different types of breeds will set up in the park.

“Although beer is the focus, we have a sponsorship from Tito’s (Vodka) and there will be other beverages, including pop and water,” Kemp said.

She added that the chamber always needs volunteers to help with the event.

For more information or to volunteer, call the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce at (248) 547-4000 or visit royaloakchamber.com.