North Aurora’s Riverfront Park Transformed by Dog Days of Summer Event

North Aurora’s Riverfront Park had a novel appearance on Saturday morning. The stars of the show were the dogs participating in the village’s second Dog Days of Summer event.

The festivities commenced at 10 a.m. and included a pet parade alongside a vendor market dedicated to pet-themed products.

Katrina Keilty, a local resident, shared her enjoyment of seeing the park in a fresh perspective with her Wooly Siberian Husky, Duncan. She mentioned, “I thought of naming him Dunkin like the doughnut because he kind of looks like one.” Before the pet parade, she remarked, “We’re entering the competition for ‘most unique’ as people often don’t recognize him as a husky due to his longer fur and different colored eyes. The idea of a pet parade is great fun.”

Natalie Stevens, North Aurora’s community relations coordinator, explained that the pet parade had previously been part of the North Aurora Days festival but hadn’t occurred for several years. “We all love our pets, so we decided to handle this event internally,” she stated.

The pet parade included categories such as cutest pet, owner and pet dress-alike, largest and smallest pet, most unusual pet, and best trick. Prizes like trophies and gift cards to pet supply stores were awarded for first and second places.

Local vendors offered handmade dog treats, pet clothing, and custom pet portraits. Stevens added, “Local pet companies, including doggy day care centers, pet stores with supplies, and dog rescue groups with adoptable dogs, participated in the event.”

Despite lingering smoke from Canadian wildfires, attendees eagerly showcased their pets. Lore Solano, another North Aurora resident, brought Dolce, a cream-colored mini-long-haired dachshund, which she claimed is uncommon due to her color. “She’s participating in the costume contest, and last year she won her race in the ‘weiner’ race event,” she recounted. “I’m dressing her as a princess. I love dogs and used to breed and show them.”

Anna Califf from Westchester brought Lady Lucy, her full-bred Chihuahua, saying she struggled to choose between entering her in the best costume or look-alike category. “She has won numerous contests before,” Califf noted.

Laura McCoy from North Aurora considered bringing her rescue dog, Caramel, among other pets such as frogs and toads, but decided against it, thinking they wouldn’t enjoy the event.