Barkapalooza Rescue Fest unleashes community teamwork

Ellie Scannell, Features Editor • October 9, 2025

Barkapalooza Rescue Fest

(Ellie Scannell)

A day dedicated to dogs and rescue

The annual Barkapalooza event took place on Sunday, Sept. 28, in Lisle, Illinois. The morning kicked off with a Rescue Run 5k, followed by the Waggin' Tails Walk, a one-mile park walk. These events alone brought together families, supporters and their dogs from all over DuPage County.

Then came Rescue Fest, which is organized by the West Suburban Humane Society, and is the most popular event at Barkapalooza. It included a variety of activities: vendors, pet contests and food trucks. More than just a festival, Rescue Fest welcomed a gathering of pet lovers at Lisle Community Park, all coming together to support animals in need.

(Ellie Scannell)

"Paw-sitive" vibes at the pavilion

A grassy area around the pavilion buzzed with activity as participants gathered, chatting with friends and enjoying live music. Attendees could be seen walking their dogs, relaxing under shady tents, and stopping by the alumni photo and pet blessing stations.

(Ellie Scannell)

"Paw-some" pop-up shops

Artisan markets, organization vendors and food trucks lined the sunlit sidewalk at Rescue Fest. Local rescue groups and businesses set up booths to showcase popular products-- from pet chew toys to handmade accessories.

(Ellie Scannell)

The Barkminster pet contest

Next to the pavilion, the Barkminster Pet Contest hosted free competitions, such as "dog and owner look-alike," "waggiest tail" and "silliest trick." Winners of the categories received goodie bags, and there were costume awards for participants in the 5k walk. These competitions were a way for owners to showcase their dogs' unique qualities, take photos with friends and be part of the Rescue Fest experience.

(Ellie Scannell)

Happy Huskies greet customers

Volunteers from the Adopt-a-Husky rescue organization made an appearance at Rescue Fest, along with two foster dogs. AAHI takes in huskies from shelters all over the Midwest, caring for the dogs in foster homes until they are adopted. This was one of the many non-profit organizations at Rescue Fest. At this booth, participants met the volunteers and fosters and purchased merchandise.

(Ellie Scannell)

One cheerful contender

A smiling dog sits under the Fetching Tails Foundation booth, wearing a bandana that reads "Adopt Me." Volunteers at this station answered participants' questions about available dogs and adoption throughout the day. Many dogs were on-site, ready to meet potential new families.

(Ellie Scannell)

Barkery-palooza

Happy Dog Barkery, local to Downers Grove, Illinois, is a popular destination for hand-decorated pet treats, custom cakes, chew toys and more. The Barkery has been a part of Barkapalooza for over a decade, selling popular products to customers. Rebecca McManus, marketing manager at the Barkery, shared her experience with customer interaction at the event.

"The most popular products at the event are any of our baked-in-house items, like cakes, cookies and cupcakes," McManus said. "After the festival, it's always great to see people come into the store looking for more of what they sampled."

McManus emphasized that Barkapalooza is more than just an opportunity to sell. For them, it's a cause to support and a community to be a part of. Since the Barkery began as a small business, they strongly believe in supporting other local organizations.

"We love coming here and meeting our customers. A lot of our staff volunteers have adopted rescue dogs, and we are always looking to support rescue organizations and ways we can give to our community," McManus said.

Barkapalooza's Rescue Fest is central to the missions of many local businesses and animal advocates, including the Barkery. This tradition is a meaningful way for them to support rescues and connect with the community.

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Barkapalooza Rescue Fest unleashes community teamwork

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