It’s a day dedicated to our four-legged family members and being held at a new location this year, Washington Township Park in Avon. Hendricks County has plenty of dog parks and dog-friendly locations to visit but nothing compares to the Bow Wow Bash, hosted by our local animal rescue and adoption nonprofit, Misty Eyes Animal Center.

Dogs, cats and their humans are invited to what Misty Eyes calls the largest pet adoption event in Hendricks County. Plus, it’s a ton of fun with contests, games, vendors and so much more.

Begin planning your costume now and learn more about this fun event below!

Bow Wow Bash (Photos Courtesy of Misty Eyes Facebook page)

More than 80 vendors will offer custom collars, dog bowls, toys and perhaps some new items for our pets that might surprise you.

Grab something to eat at the many food truck options and don’t forget to stop by the silent auction for a great deal on an awesome variety of community-donated goods.

Bow Wow Bash (Photo Courtesy of Misty Eyes Facebook page)

There’s so much fun in this category, it’s hard to keep track. Want Fido or Fluffy to be the Top Dog or Top Cat of 2025? Raise funds for Misty Eyes, and the winner will receive a custom photoshoot and their pets’ image all over next year’s advertising.

Other contests begin at 3 p.m. and include Best Dressed (this is where the costumes come in), Top Talent and Best of Show among others.

Bow Wow Bash (Photo Courtesy of Misty Eyes Facebook page)

Rescue groups from all over Indiana will come out to the Bow Wow Bash to show off their adorable adoptable pets.

If a dog or cat is in your future, it’s the perfect place to learn more, visit animals looking for a home and even bringing one home with you.

Bow Wow Bash (Photo Courtesy of Misty Eyes Facebook page)

It’s hard to choose between an afternoon of contests and fun costumes or the annual Ball Drop. At 4:45 p.m. Hendricks Power invites guests to watch hundreds of tennis balls dropped from their bucket truck.

Purchase a tennis ball with a number on it and when the official ball retriever brings back the lucky number, you might be the winner of a 70” Smart TV.

Bow Wow Bash (Photo Courtesy of Misty Eyes Facebook page)

Organizers ask for a donation of $5 per person to enter the Bow Wow Bash, but if you want to give a little bit more, there are VIP tickets available for $35.

Purchase of the special ticket gets you an event T-shirt, bandana for your dog or cat, a drawstring bag and a lunch of hot dog, chips and drink.

  • Where: The Bow Wow Bash will be held at Washington Township Park in Avon, Indiana
  • When: Noon to 5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024
  • Cost: $5 per person donation or $35 VIP ticket. Kids and Pets are free.
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