Event information

Rain or shine, gates will open at 9 AM on Saturday, May 4, at the International Bazaar on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. We'll begin walking at 10 AM and wrap up our fun-filled day by 1 PM.

All animal lovers are welcome at the Walk! Didn't fundraise? No problem. There are plenty of opportunities to make a difference at the Walk with cash, credit card, and virtual payment donations.

Walk route and location

This year, we're back at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds to celebrate second chances.

Walkers will start on Spruce Street, turn left onto Randell Avenue, and then make their way down Underwood Street. The walk route is approximately one mile, and you can turn around at any time.

How to bring your pet to the Walk

For the safety of your dog and others, we highly recommend a 4’ or 6’ flat leash. Retractable leashes are not advised.

We also recommend that small animals like cats, rabbits, and ferrets enjoy the Walk for Animals from the comfort and safety of a carrier or covered stroller.

What to bring

• Good news: There’s no need to check-in for prizes! To make it convenient for our Walk attendees, all prizes will be shipped to you following the event.

  You may mail your donations in advance (must be postmarked by May 10 to be counted towards prizes), so there will be nothing for you to bring or pick up on Walk day! If you prefer to drop off your cash and check donations along with a completed donation tracking form, you can do so at the donation drop-off tent.

• Cash for food and merchandise purchases as not all vendors take credit cards. ATMs are also available at the event.

• Weather-appropriate clothing and supplies such as hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, or an umbrella.

• To reduce waste, please bring your own water in a reusable container.

Food, entertainment, and more

After you walk, it's time to celebrate! The Walk features an array of food and beverage vendors to delight your taste buds, as well as an incredible lineup of local retailers, rescues, and pet service providers. See who'll be joining us.

We'll also have a number of fun activities for pets and people alike! Stop by the International Bazaar to dive into the fun.

Event schedule

• 9 AM: Walk for Animals grounds open

  Activities, vendors, and food trucks are ready for your arrival.

  Donation drop-off

  Drop off your donations any time between 9 AM and 12:30 PM to be counted toward your fundraising goal and the prizes you receive.

  Note: Fundraising prizes will be mailed to you post-event.

• 10 AM: Walk begins!

  We’ll kick off the Walk at 10 AM. The route will be available for thousands of animal lovers and their pets to prove that every step is a second chance.

• 11 AM: Pet costume contest begins

  Sign your pet up for the costume contest at the main stage by 10:45 AM on Walk day. Space is limited.

• 12:30 PM: Donation drop-off closes

• 1 PM: Walk for Animals grounds close

  All activities, vendors, and main stage close.

Check back soon for more details on vendors, activities, and all the fun we have planned!

Questions?

Check out our FAQ page. If your questions aren't answered there, fill out our contact form or call 763-432-4841.