Make plans to visit Bridgeland neighborhood in Cypress for the annual Howl-O-Ween Fest, set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, in Bridgeland’s Oak Meadow Park.
The annual dog-friendly party, which drew more than 3,000 puppy lovers last year, offers plenty of fun for two- and four-legged family members. Top dog on this year’s stage schedule is Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix, which performs at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. With appearances on David Letterman, Primetime Live and the Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus, the comedy act stars mostly rescue dogs. Returning this year after successful shows in 2010 are Guennadi and his world-famous dog act, who performs at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., and the gravity-defying canine antics of the Houston Canine Frisbee Disc Club, which performs at noon. And especially for young audiences is a magic show by Houston’s Lanny Kibbey, who performs at 2 p.m.
As in previous years, Howl-O-Ween Fest is a pit stop for the “Splash Dogs” dock-diving competition, which takes place both Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 29 and 30. High-ranking dogs for 2011 have leaped more than 25 feet into the water. Learn more and register at www.splashdogs.com or at the event. There will be a registration fee, with a portion going toward Howl-O-Ween fundraising efforts.
Other Howl-O-Ween Fest treats include a 1 p.m. pooch fashion show and costume contest, with prizes going to the top three winners, a farmers’ market with pumpkin patch, several rounds of bingo with prizes awarded, pet vendors and street performers. As in years past, Foundry Church will hold its annual fall event during Howl-O-Ween Fest, with carnival games, bounce houses, a miniature train, laser tag and more.
Most activities will be free; however a few will "fetch" a small donation, which will go to participating animal rescue groups, including Cocker Spaniel Rescue of East Texas — Houston, Chesapeake Bay Retriever Relief & Rescue, Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas and Weimaraner Rescue of Texas. Other rescue groups will be added as the event date nears.
A caravan of food trucks will be trekking to Bridgeland for the day. On tap for the event are Fusion Taco, The Berry Boys, Papa John’s Pizza, Grill 'em Girls and Grill Marks, with more to be added.
And while fun will be unleashed throughout the day, dogs will have to remain on their leashes at all times. Plus, pets must be current on all vaccinations, wear a current rabies tag and be on their best behavior — any aggressive pooches will be asked to leave to keep the event enjoyable for everyone.