presented by Hill Country Animal League
Barktoberfest 2026
October 17, 2026
10am-4pm
Boerne Main Plaza
presented by Hill Country Animal League
Barktoberfest 2026
October 17, 2026
10am-4pm
Boerne Main Plaza
Willkommen
to the
6th Annual Boerne Barktoberfest!
This Oktoberfest-inspired festival is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of pets, people, and community that features local beer vendors, music, food trucks, a silent auction, rescue pet adoptions, a petting zoo, doggy dash races, and more. Every race, every costume, and every bite of food directly supports the mission to keep spay/neuter and wellness care affordable for local pets and families.
We’re counting down to Saturday, October 17, from 10 AM – 4 PM!
Join us at the Boerne Main Plaza for a full day of dog-friendly fun, food, and community.
Cheer on Boerne’s fastest pups as they sprint for glory. Every pup is racing for fun (and maybe a few treats). Prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place.
Watch the wiener dogs steal the spotlight in this hilarious and beloved race that always draws a crowd.
From spooky to silly, see pups strut their stuff in creative costumes that wow the judges and the crowd. Prizes for the best looks!
Celebrate second chances in our parade of adopted pets! A heartwarming walk through the Plaza showcasing the joy of rescue.
Find your new best friend! Local rescues will be on-site with cats and dogs ready for forever homes. Every adoption saves lives.
Sip local brews as you stroll the Plaza, soak in the festival vibes, and enjoy a food truck lineup serving everything from savory bites to sweet treats.
Fun for the whole family! Meet and feed friendly farm animals from Happy Tails Petting Zoo in this kid-favorite attraction.
Shop local businesses for pet gear, handmade crafts, gifts, and more. Support small business while you enjoy the festival.
Bid big, give back! Score unique items, gift baskets, and local experiences while supporting HCAL’s lifesaving work. Every winning bid helps pets in need.
Every dollar raised at Barktoberfest goes back to the mission: providing affordable, high-quality spay/neuter and wellness services for pets in the Hill Country.
Highlights from Barktoberfest 2025
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
10am – 11am |
Event Check-In & Registration, Practice Doggy Dash Run |
11am – 12pm |
Costume Contest |
12:30pm – 1:30pm |
Doggy Dash Races |
1:30pm – 2pm |
Dachshund Races |
Please note: Leashed pets must be up to date on vaccinations and free of heat. Owners must clean up after their animals and keep them under control at all times. Aggressive dogs may be refused entry or removed by officials.
FAQs: Admission & Logistics
How much does it cost to attend? Is admission free?
Admission is free! Some activities and contests may have a registration fee.
Is parking available nearby?
Yes—there’s plenty of free parking around the Main Plaza and nearby streets. Be sure to pay attention to no parking zones and signs as you can be ticketed.
What should I bring with me? (chairs, cash, water, etc.)
What should I bring with me? (chairs, cash, water, etc.)
Bring a leash, some cash or card for vendors, and anything you or your pet may need.
What happens if it rains? Is there a backup plan?
Barktoberfest is rain or shine. Bring an umbrella just in case. We’ll post updates on our website and social media if anything changes.
FAQs: Pets & Activities
Can I bring my dog? Are cats allowed?
Yes! Dogs are welcome – just make sure they’re comfortable in crowds and around other animals. We ask that cats stay home for this event.
Does my dog need to be leashed at all times?
Yes, all dogs must remain on a leash (6 ft. or shorter) during the event.
Are there areas for dogs to rest, drink water, or cool off?
Yes, water stations and shaded rest areas will be available throughout the plaza.
How do I register my dog for the Doggy Dash?
Register online ahead of time or at the registration tent the morning of the event.
What’s included in the costume contest? How do I sign up?
Enter your pup in one of several fun categories! Registration is available online or at the event.
FAQs: Food, Vendors & Fun
What kind of vendors will be there?
Local pet rescues, artisans, and local small businesses. Plus, plenty of pet-friendly products.
Will there be food and drinks for people too?
Yes! Food trucks and drink vendors will be on-site. Craft beer will be for sale by Free Roam Brewery in Boerne.
Is there a silent auction or raffle, and how does it work?
Yes! Bid on silent auction items or enter raffles throughout the day. Details will be posted at the event.
Is the event family-friendly for kids?
Absolutely! Bring the whole family. There will be activities for kids, like face painting, arts and crafts, and a petting zoo.
FAQs: Supporting the Cause
Who does this event benefit?
Barktoberfest supports Hill Country Animal League’s affordable spay/neuter and wellness clinic.
How does my participation/donation support pets in need?
Every dollar raised helps provide surgeries, vaccines, and affordable care for local pets and families.
Can I donate directly at the event?
Yes! Look for our donation stations or scan one of the QR codes posted around the plaza. If you’re unable to attend this year, you can donate directly on our website.
small pledge, big impact
Get in Touch
Vendor applications are currently closed for 2026. If you have questions about Barktoberfest event details, sponsorships, or donations, please contact us!
About Us
Hill Country Animal League is a nonprofit organization offering affordable spay & neuter surgeries and pet wellness services in the Hill Country area.
Our Mission
To minimize the overpopulation of unwanted dogs and cats in the greater Hill Country area by providing affordable spay/neuter and wellness care services.
Donations
Many thanks to our generous sponsors, donors, and vendors! If you’d like to further support our mission, please consider making a donation. Thank you!
Many thanks to our 2026 Sponsors
