Hosted by the Rochester Downtown Alliance, Dogs Downtown is more than just a dog-friendly outing it’s a full-on, tail-wagging festival. The event is free and open to the public, welcoming thousands of humans and their pups for an afternoon packed with interactive experiences and local flavor.
The event, once held at Peace Plaza, has fully embraced its newer home in Central Park (225 1st Ave NW), offering more green space and room for activities. Whether you’ve got a couch-loving corgi or a fetch-obsessed retriever, there’s something here for every pup’s personality.
Dogs Downtown features a bustling vendor village with more than two dozen local businesses and artists. Expect everything from gourmet treats and handmade collars to dog behaviorists and pet wellness experts. Many vendors offer free samples, games, or raffles, adding to the street fair feel of the afternoon.
Dog-themed or not, the booths bring out some of Rochester’s best makers and community groups, reflecting the city’s growing culture of local engagement and support for small businesses.
Kindly complete this application form and email it to events@downtownrochestermn.com by September 22, 2025.
Feeling hungry after chasing your golden around the splash zone? You're in luck. Several downtown restaurants near the park are dog-friendly, including Bleu Duck Kitchen, ThaiPop, Cafe Steam, Almadina, Espadin and Chester’s Kitchen & Bar, many with shaded patios and water bowls on hand.
Mayo Clincs Animal Assisted Services will be offering a simulation booth where people can test their dog to see if they would do well as a potential hospital therapy dog.
While the event is open to all breeds and sizes, organizers ask that dogs be leashed, socialized, and up-to-date on vaccinations. With crowds expected, it’s a great event for well-mannered pups who enjoy lots of sights, sounds, and sniffs.
First-timers may want to bring:
Water bowls and poop bags
A towel for wet dogs
A favorite toy or treats for encouragement
A sense of humor especially if your dog photobombs someone else’s cartoon sketch
In a world that’s often rushed and disconnected, Dogs Downtown is a refreshing reminder of what shared joy looks like. It’s an event where strangers become friends through the simple act of asking, “Can I pet your dog?”
More than just a pet event, it reflects Rochester’s commitment to community, inclusivity, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a lifelong dog parent or just dog-curious, it’s a rare chance to see your city through the eyes of your best furry friend.
📍 Dogs Downtown 2025 – At a Glance
When: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Central Park, 225 1st Ave NW, Rochester, MN
Cost: Free
Hosted by: Rochester Downtown Alliance
Leashes required
For more information or to view the full vendor list (coming soon), visit: downtownrochestermn.com
Attendees are invited to share photos from this event by tagging @downtownrochestermn on Instagram for a chance to be featured. 🐶📸
This article was made with assistance from AI