Roanoke is going to the dogs! We love our four-legged family members, and it's always fun to take them to new places. Here are some upcoming Roanoke events, along with patios and dog parks where well-behaved dogs are welcome.
Should you take your dog?
Before choosing to take your dog out and about in Roanoke consider whether your dog (and you!) will have a good experience. Typically, well-behaved, socialized dogs who are comfortable around people and other dogs are ideal for these settings. Ensuring your dog is friendly, leash-trained, and non-disruptive will help everyone enjoy their time. Always check specific venue policies and consider your dog's temperament to ensure a pleasant outing for all.
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Upcoming Dog-Friendly Events in Roanoke
Taco Fest
2025 Roanoke Taco Fest – Fun for the Whole Family!
Saturday, September 6th, 2025 🕚 Gates open at 11:00 AM | Festival ends at 5:00 PM
Join Huddle Up Moms at Elmwood Park for a day packed with flavor, fun, and community celebration. 🎸 Enjoy: 🌮 Tacos from food trucks, food tents, caterers & restaurants 🎶 Live music all day in the amphitheater 🛍️ Unique shopping from local artisan vendors 🍹 Refreshing drinks and cool treats 🎈 A fun-filled Kid Zone with complimentary activities — open to all children, thanks to our amazing sponsors! $10 for ages 13+, Free 12 and Under.
Blue Ridge Folklife Festival
Celebrating it's 52nd year! On the fourth Saturday of October, the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival has presented musicians, moonshiners, craftspeople, cooks, motorheads, mule jumpers, horse pullers, coon dog racers, antique tractor buffs, and old-time gamers for a celebration of the rich heritage and traditions of the region.
Covering much of the Ferrum College campus and the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum’s living history farm museum, the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival has something for everyone. It’s a family friendly affair. Rain or shine, the festival will go on. As always, parking is free. Proceeds from the festival help to fund the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum and all of its programs.
Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival
Celebrating it's 34th year, the award winning Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival has something for everyone. Admission includes hayrides, several games and activities for the kids, like the super slide and petting the farm animals. There are also food trucks, vendors and live music. The last weekend of the festival features a regional wine festival. $15-20, Kids 3 and Under Free.
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Dog-Friendly Patios in Roanoke
We asked on Facebook ... and doggone it, you answered! Here are the restaurants, breweries, and bars in Roanoke you told us have dog-friendly patios.
- Hanging Rock Tavern - temporarily closed August 2025
- Treehouse Tavern
- Evie's
- Mac and Bob's
- Sweet Donkey Coffee
- The Hatch
- Green Goat
- Scrambled
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Dog Parks in Roanoke
- Highland Park
- 1212 5th Street SW Roanoke, Virginia
- Thrasher Dog Park
- 930 Old Vinton Mill Rd NE, Roanoke, VA 24012
- Salem Rotary Dog Park
- 1301 Indiana Street Salem, VA 24153
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Roanoke Animal Shelters and Volunteer Opportunities
These might not be the best places to take your own dog, but we wanted to give our Roanoke shelters a shout-out too and let you know about potential volunteer opportunities for your family that give you a chance to make a difference in the lives of pooches in need in Roanoke.
There are many ways to volunteer in person or from home. Dog walkers and event support are always needed. For more information, please contact Carol at cjessee@angelsofassisi.org or join a Volunteer Info Sessions held on the second Thursday of each month at Big Lick Brewery or at Angels of Assisi.
There are many ways to volunteer at the SPCA. Duties range from housekeeping, enrichment activities, and Critter Cab transportation. Volunteers must be 16, or between the ages of 10-15 with a guardian. Learn More.
Dog walking, Cat socialization, photography, and more. Must be 18 to volunteer at RCACP.
Know of a Roanoke event, dog-friendly restaurant, dog park, or animal shelter we're missing? Let me know at bethbell@macaronikid.com and we'll add it to our list!
