Leatherback Brewery will host Barktoberfest for the St. Croix Animal Welfare Center (SCAWC) on Nov. 12 from 1-6 p.m. and the number of pets available for adoption and the variety of fun activities and goodies to eat is almost scary.
All of the pups available for adoption will be there, some in costume, to impress and give love to potential new pet parents. Becca Hughson, marketing and public relations director for SCAWC, said the pups will be taken home by 3:30 p.m. or so to avoid overheating.
“Because there is pet overpopulation and a housing crisis, we’re having this large-scale adoption event. There are many ways to donate but the entire theme is to get animals in loving homes,” Hughson said.
A puppy costume parade, around 2 p.m., should be the highlight of the day. People are invited to bring their well-behaved puppies and dogs on a leash to participate in the parade with the shelter pets.
While humans and canines are getting acquainted, live music will energize the crowd all afternoon. Headliners are Jubal, featuring ISB, Supa Traks, DJ Chubby, DJ Genius and Mr. Energy.
Also, Miss St. Croix and Miss Cultural Queen will meet and greet their fans.
Traditional trick-or-treating will give little people a chance to weave their way through the vendor booths, boosting their energy and sugar levels all the way.
Speaking of food, vendors will have an array of deliciousness, including Wayne’s Wieners Wagon – hotdogs and chili dogs with Skyline chili – to raise funds for SCAWC. On the other end of the flavor scale, Umami Sushi will offer its unique flavor combinations. Love Kroix and Cruzan Freeze will also be offering their wares.
Some vendors, including Mutiny Island Vodka and Crucian Rum, will donate their proceeds to the SCAWC.
Brian Louden, the former host of the Discovery Channel’s Mythbusters, will be a special guest during the afternoon with a meet and greet booth.
Another special guest, EmpowHer Magazine – VI Women in Business – will be on hand to share their secrets for success.
Replastic Recycle, the new innovative business on the island, will have some of their creations – keychains and magnets, for sale. A must-see is their raffle prize – a dog house made of recycled plastic.
The V.I. Lottery will also have a booth to display their new lottery tickets with photos of SCAWC pets. Tickets will also be for sale.
Patrons who are looking for special treats and treatment can sign up for Pawsitive Vibes with an open bar and catered lunch from Savant Restaurant’s chef under a tent. The cost is $100, which will benefit all the animals at the Animal Welfare Center.
SCAWC merchandise will be available for sale, including a special Barktoberfest tee shirt for $25. There will also be collars, leashes and other pet supplies.
An East to West raffle for an overnight at Divi Carina Bay and Lyric Sail for 12 with drinks and appetizers will also raise funds for the Animal Welfare Center. Tickets are $20 or six for $100.
In case there is a storm, the rain date is Nov. 12.
“It’s a free event for the community. We appreciate the support and kindness of our community. And hopefully, we will send some home with a pet,” Hughson said.
