Pet Friendly Holiday Events in North Metro Atlanta
The holiday season is a magical time in North Metro Atlanta — crisp air, festive lights, and fun outings with friends and family. Why leave your dog out of the excitement? This year, treat your pup to some special experiences designed just for four-legged friends and their humans. Below are five local events perfect for pet-parents in East Cobb, Smyrna, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Dacula, Lawrenceville, and Duluth.
1. Holiday Lights & Dog Walks
One of the most fun ways to get into the holiday spirit with your dog is by joining a lights-walk event. Many neighborhoods and dog-friendly organizations host evening strolls through festively decorated streets or parks. Bring a leash, some water for your pup, and maybe a mug of cocoa for yourself.
Tip: Choose a route that offers firm footing — wet grass or leaves can be slippery for dogs. A short 30-minute walk under glowing lights can become a favorite holiday tradition for you both.
2. Pet Costume Parade & Festival
Want to showcase your dog’s holiday spirit? A pet costume parade is YOUR moment. These events often include vendors, photo opportunities with “Pup Santa,” and contests with fun prizes. One popular dog-centric festival in the Metro Atlanta area is the “Bark & Bond Festival & 3K,” which brings pets and people together for fun, community, and canine connection. Praline’s Backyard Foundation
Tip: When picking a costume, ensure it’s safe — nothing too tight, heavy, or that could trip your dog. Let your pup practice wearing the outfit indoors for a few minutes each day before the event.
3. Dog-Friendly Holiday Market
Holiday markets aren’t just for humans. Look for craft markets or holiday fairs that welcome leashed dogs and have dog-friendly vendors. For more seasonal outing ideas, check out the best fall activities for you and your dog—they’re perfect for cooler weather adventures leading into the holidays.
A stroll through stalls filled with local treats, handmade gifts, or seasonal snacks is twice the fun when your pup is by your side.
Tip: Bring waste bags and a water bowl. Crowded paths can make dogs uneasy, so choose times when traffic is lighter. A quick stop can turn into a fun outing for your dog without wearing them out.
4. Charity Dog Walk for the Holidays
Help your dog burn energy and contribute to a cause at the same time. Many holiday-themed dog walks or fundraisers take place across Metro Atlanta each year. These events are great for socializing, exercise, and giving back. You’ll often find water stations for dogs, a flat route, and plenty of wagging tails.
Tip: Register early to secure the best time slot. Bring a sturdy leash, ensure your dog has identification, and pack treats for a fun “after-walk” reward once you’re home.
5. Festive Outdoor Photos with Your Pup
Getting a holiday photo with your dog is a must! Many local parks, shopping centers, and pet boutiques in our service areas host pet-friendly photo sessions. For example, Duluth’s Rogers Bridge Park is a spacious, scenic setting for a crisp outdoor photo. Wikipedia
Tip: Bring your dog’s favorite toy and have treats ready. Choose a less-busy hour to avoid distractions, and keep the session short if your pup is new to photo shoots.
Why Your Dog Needs Holiday Outings
Even though festive lights and decorations create a cozy atmosphere, dogs can feel the change in routine. Holiday outings provide mental stimulation, keep their schedule from getting too stale, and give you extra bonding time. Plus, a clean yard and safe environment help extend the fun beyond the events themselves.
That’s where Clean Paws Scooping comes in. Whether you’re planning a stroll through Roswell or a market visit in Alpharetta, our yard-service ensures your dog has a fresh, safe space to return to after the excitement ends.
Ready for Some Holiday Fun?
Pick one (or all) of the above events, clip the dates, and mark your calendar. When the holidays wind down and warmer days return, explore the best spring adventures for you and your dog to keep the fun going year-round. Make sure your dog has clean paws, a comfortable bed to return to, and a fresh yard to relax in when the fun is over.
