Sign up for our Daily Email newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest local news throughout Philadelphia.
Philadelphians can enjoy some pups, pints and plenty of fun during the first-ever Philadelphia Bark Bowl this weekend.
FCM Hospitality and PSPCA are looking to bring out the smiles by watching furry friends play, tumble and go for a touchdown in both the special indoor dog park created for this event, plus outside at Unleashed Bark and Beer, Philly’s dog park beer garden.
The event will take place this Saturday, Feb. 12, from noon to 2 p.m. Attendees can enjoy food and drink specials, while meeting animals available for adoption. Guests are also encouraged to bring their own well-behaved four-legged friends. Philadelphia Bark Bowl will take place at Craft Hall, at 901 N. Delaware Ave. The main event will take place inside, with a special indoor puppy park that will make this event rain, snow or shine.
Provided
“The Pennsylvania SPCA is thrilled to participate in this year’s Bark Bowl at Craft Hall,” said Pennsylvania SPCA Director of Public Relations Gillian Koche. “Not only will the event invite dog owners to celebrate the big game, but it will also bring much-needed attention to those dogs still in search of their forever families. We can’t wait to introduce families to their new M.V.P.’s (most valuable pups).”
Before the big day, Craft Hall will host an at-home competition online for the first ever Philly’s Barkie Award by tagging @crafthallphilly and hashtags #barkie #barkbowl2022. Each like and comment is one ballot. Voting ends at noon on Friday, Feb. 11 and the winner will be announced at half-time during the Bark Bowl.
Provided
Guests must be 21 years old to join, unless accompanied by a legal parent or guardian. This event is family-friendly. There is no cost for admission, but RSVP is suggested online at crafthallphilly.com/barkbowl.
“We are always looking for ways to engage our community, including our furry members,” said FCM Hospitality’s Neina Langford. “We can’t watch the Birds play football, so might as well watch some adorable dogs instead. FCM Hospitality has been fortunate enough to partner with the PSPCA for many years. We are excited to be able to continue this valuable partnership, even in the colder months, with this adorable event.”
Provided
In the pop-up dog park, astroturf will be used to set up a “field” for the competition. PSPCA dogs will be in their own VIP area to remain on-leash with their handlers and will be the event “cheerleaders.” For the competition, patrons’ dogs will be divided into two teams to compete in the games listed below and the winning team will be the Bark Bowl 2022 Champions. Games will include:
The Big Game: Dogs in two teams will be set-up in two end zones, with different colored bandanas. There will be multiple chew toys, with a timer set for 10 minutes. Any time a toy crosses the end zone, it’s a point for that team. There will be an official “rufferee” and some added commentary to make sure all dogs are being “good sports.”
Fumble Recovery: All dogs line up and one football toy is released for them to race to pick up. Whatever dog comes up with it will be the MVP.
Agility Course: Look for small cones and hula hoops to jump through to warm up for the games.
Halftime Show: The pups will be treated to a Bubble Halftime Show for them to chase and pop to their heart’s delight. During this time, Craft Hall will announce the big winner of the 2022 Philly’s Barkie Award online voting competition.
