Your Ultimate Guide to Pup-Approved Parties, Festivals, and Fundraisers This Spring
New York City is going to the dogs—in the best way possible. With spring in full swing and tails wagging everywhere, May 2025 is serving up a packed calendar of unforgettable dog-friendly events. From sky-high yappy hours to community walks with a purpose, this city knows how to celebrate our four-legged BFFs.
Whether you're a seasoned pup parent or a new dog mom looking for your first adventure, we’ve rounded up the best dog-friendly happenings this May across NYC. Ready to fetch some fun? Let’s dive in.
🌇 1. Paws on the Patio at Virgin Hotels NYC – May 13, 2025
📍 Everdene Terrace, Floor 3, Virgin Hotels NYC, 1227 Broadway
🕔 5:30–7:30 PM | 🎟️ $35 for 1 human + 1 pup | 🌧️ Rain date: May 14
Dogistry and Virgin Hotels NYC are throwing the ultimate rooftop pawty. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Everdene Terrace, this chic evening out includes cocktails, stylish dogs, live portrait painting, and professional pet photography. A deluxe gift bag awaits, packed with Dogistry goodies, Pride+Groom essentials, FI Collar merch, and more.
All proceeds benefit NYC Second Chance Rescue through a silent auction. Warning: Your dog might get more attention than you.
⚾ 2. Bark at the Park with the Mets – May 12, 2025
📍 Citi Field, Queens | 🕒 Game time TBD
Take your pooch out to the ball game! This fan-favorite event allows dogs in designated seating areas, features an on-field pup parade, and benefits North Shore Animal League. Hot dogs and home runs guaranteed.
🎶 3. Woofstock: Badass Spring Fest – Mid-May, Date TBA
📍 President Street, Brooklyn (exact TBA)
This isn’t your average pet fair—it’s a full-blown doggo street party hosted by Badass Animal Rescue. Adoptable pups, food trucks, live music, dog ice cream, and loads of good vibes? Yes, please. And yes, dogs are absolutely encouraged to wear flower crowns.
🐾 4. NYC Paws for Prevention Walk – May 3, 2025
📍 Coney Island Steeplechase Park, Brooklyn
Walk with a purpose at this heartfelt community event supporting suicide prevention efforts. Bring your pup along the scenic Coney Island boardwalk and raise funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
🎨 5. Sip & Paint Your Pet – May 2, 2025
📍 Barking Dog NYC, 1678 Third Ave at 94th Street
Wine, art, and dogs—what could go wrong? At this creative night out, you’ll sip wine while painting a pre-sketched portrait of your pup. An instructor helps guide the fun, and yes, your dog is totally invited.
🐶 6. Small Dog Meetup at Pier 26 – May 17, 2025
📍 Pier 26 Dog Run, Tribeca
This one’s just for the littles (25 lbs. and under)! Socialize your small pup in a safe, size-appropriate setting and meet fellow dog lovers in your neighborhood. Plus: treats, water bowls, and a ton of new IG friends.
🥂 7. Dog Mom’s Brunch – May 3, 2025
📍 Sojourn Social, Upper East Side
Raise a toast to the world’s best title: Dog Mom. This Mother’s Day pre-game includes a luxe brunch menu, dog-friendly "mimosas," giveaways, and custom pet portraits. Dress your pup for the 'gram.
🌸 8. Barks & Blooms Rooftop Gala – May 19, 2025
📍 Monarch Rooftop, Midtown Manhattan
Hosted by PAWS NY, this gorgeous rooftop gala brings animal lovers together in support of seniors and pets in need. Enjoy craft cocktails, panoramic city views, and great company—all while doing some good.
📸 9. Pet Portrait Playdate in Central Park – May 4, 2025
📍 Heckscher Playground Lawn
Bring your pup, your blanket, and your biggest smile for a chill morning playdate in the park. Pet photographers will be on hand to snap pawfessional shots of your pup among the cherry blossoms.
⚾ 10. Bark in the Park with the Brooklyn Cyclones – May 3, 18, & 27, 2025
📍 Maimonides Park, Brooklyn
Why settle for one game when you can go to three? The Cyclones are hosting multiple Bark in the Park events this May with on-field doggy parades, giveaways, and pup-approved ballpark snacks.
🐕 Tips for Dog-Friendly Events in NYC:
✅ Bring a collapsible water bowl – Spring temps can sneak up on you and your pup
✅ Check leash requirements – Most events are on-leash unless stated otherwise
✅ Pack the essentials – Treats, poop bags, a backup leash, and a cute bandana go a long way
✅ Arrive early – Popular events can fill up fast, especially with limited dog areas
✅ Mind the weather – Bring sunscreen for you and paw protection for hot pavement
📅 Ready, Set, Sniff!
From pet-friendly picnics to paw-some fundraisers and full-blown festivals, May 2025 is NYC’s most dog-tastic month yet. These events aren’t just about having fun—they’re about building community, supporting causes, and making memories with your best furry friend.
Mark your calendars, grab your leash, and we’ll see you at Paws on the Patio! 🐶✨
🔁 TL;DR – Quick Recap:
NYC’s best dog-friendly events in May 2025 include rooftop yappy hours, dog baseball nights, adoption street fests, charity walks, and bougie brunches. Whether your pup is a social butterfly or a chill companion, there's a paw-fect event waiting for you.
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