Patterned after the legendary Mystic Krewe of Barkus in New Orleans ,the event will feature a parade, festivities and shopping galore! Located at Mitchell Park, just west of the Historic Downtown Commercial District, vendors will be on hand starting at 12:30 p.m. to showcase their products and services. The parade will begin promptly at 2 p.m., followed by the costume contest that is a must-see experience all in itself. The theme for this year’s event is, “All American Barkus”.
Owners and their canine companions dress according to the theme each year, and the entire family gets involved in the act! Barkus fun isn’t limited to just dogs and their owners. Children may enter “All American” floats and join in the parade. The route begins at Mitchell Park at the corner of Church St. and Louisiana St. , proceeding east on Louisiana then north on Tennessee and finally west on Virginia ending back at Mitchell Park.
Registration:
The event is free and open to everyone. Cost for participants to enter the costume contest is $5 per dog, and pre-registration is required to secure your spot. However, there is not a fee to walk in the parade. To register, contact the Art Institute of McKinney atinfo@artinstituteofmckinney.com. Please be sure to include the dog’s name, color, and breed, along with the owner’s name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Prizes will be awarded in each size group (small, medium, large and really large) for Best Costume, Best Dog and Owner Combo, and overall Best of Show.