The Fourth of July is always an enjoyable celebration, but in Bend, it’s even more fun because that’s when the Pet Parade marches through downtown. It’s the biggest parade in Bend, full of all sorts of pets and their loving owners, all dressed up in festive red, white and blue costumes. This is one of our favorite events in Bend, OR!
A Little History and a Few Fun Facts
The popular Pet Parade earned an Oregon Heritage Tradition designation in 2014, and has been running since 1924, with only a few cancelations due to wars and pandemics along the way. The Pet Parade hasn’t always been on July 4th. In fact, the first official Bend Pet Parade was June 21, 1924. Besides dogs and horses, over the years parade participants included pet gold fish, chickens, calves, lizards, goats, guinea pigs, llamas, and two fawns who rode along in a netted baby carriage. And in 1932, a pet badger won 6th place.
A Few Details of Events in Bend
Using the same route as all of Bend’s parades, the staging area will be at Harmon Park, and starting at 10am, the parade will run north along Harmon to Newport, east to Wall Street and then down to the finish at Drake Park. This is a very popular event, so arrive early to scope out some shade and the best viewing spot.
There’s no registration, and anyone can participate. No matter whether you plan on joining in the parade or just having fun watching, dress everyone and your pets in red, white and blue patriotic costumes and come on downtown. The more outrageous and goofy the costume, the better!
And your pets don’t have to be real! If your child really wants to participate, and their only pet is their teddy bear, dress them both up, find a bike, pedal car or wagon (so they won’t get tired) and let them enjoy themselves. The parade is open to all ages too!
Don’t forget, the weather can be a little warm here in July, so please bring plenty of water for you, your kids and pets.
The July Fourth Pet Parade
And there’s more fun to be had! The goofy, Pet Parade is just the start of the festivities. There are craft vendors, three-legged races, watermelon, pie and hot dog eating contests, live music and fun for all ages. Visit the parade’s website for more information, or just give us a call! We’ll answer your questions about the Pet Parade, or help you find the perfect pet friendly rental for your stay here in beautiful Bend.
