It’s a dog day afternoon in Northern Virginia as the beloved Park and Bark festival returns for its fourth year on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park. Hosted by the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park Friends, this free, family-friendly event invites the community to enjoy an afternoon of hot dogs, Lazy Dog, adoptable dogs, music, and plenty of family-friendly tail-wagging fun — all in support of the park.

The event will take place on the lawn outside the Walney Visitor Center (5040 Walney Road) and feature attractions for attendees and their canine companions, including:

Craft brews from Lazy Dog Restaurant
Delicious food, including gourmet sausages and dogs from Kaziville hot dog truck
Dog-themed vendors along with local crafters, makers and bakers
Adoptable dogs from A Forever Home Rescue Foundation
On-site mobile dog grooming services
Live music from Lucas Mason
Kids activities led by ECLP park staff

“Park and Bark turns the lawn into a (leashed!) dog run full of festival fun. It brings the community together – friends, family, neighbors, local vendors, and of course animal lovers, all in support of our park,” said Jennifer Grinnell, president of ECLP Friends. “Come, sit and stay for a while with your dog, while raising awareness and support for environmental education and park programs.”

The Walney Visitor Center will also be open for event-goers to explore throughout the day. Set in a beautifully restored 18th-century farmhouse and surrounding grounds, visitors can discover the natural and cultural history of this 650-acre park, view live reptiles and amphibians, enjoy hands-on activities for children and explore preserved historic structures.

Free parking for Park and Bark is available at the Visitor Center, with additional parking and walking access from Walney Pond and The Woodlands Stewardship Education Center via marked park trails. Attendees are encouraged to walk to the event when possible — something their dogs will surely appreciate.

The Ellanor C. Lawrence Park Friends is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the park through programs, events, fundraising, and community engagement. Signature initiatives include Park & Bark, ParktoberFest, and the Friends Field Trip Scholarship Program, which expands access to outdoor learning experiences for local students. Learn more, volunteer and donate at eclpfriends.org.

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