GAINESVILLE, Ga. (March 6, 2023) – Join Main Street Gainesville for a tail-waggin’ good time Saturday, March 25, when the historic square goes to the dogs with the return of Mutts on Main in downtown Gainesville.

This annual pet expo is slated for 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and will highlight dog adoptions/fostering at the Hall County Animal Shelter, said Main Street Manager Nicole Parham.

“The downtown square is a pet-friendly environment on any day, but this day we celebrate all things dogs and there will be dogs everywhere!” she said. “Bring your dog, shop for your dog, enjoy other people’s dogs, enjoy dog entertainment, and hopefully we’ll see as many dogs adopted as possible from our partners who work together as the main response teams in Hall County. In-person adoptions at the event will be hosted by the Hall County Animal Shelter.”

Parham said attendees – two-legged and four-legged – will have the opportunity to enjoy “K-9s in Flight” disc dog shows at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

K-9 units from the Hall County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and Gainesville Police Department (GPD) will also be on hand, with the HCSO offering a demonstration at 11 a.m. followed by a meet-and-greet. GPD K-9s will visit and meet with attendees at 2 p.m. (no demonstration planned).

A fashion show highlighting local boutiques and dogs up for adoption will step off at noon, featuring pet contests for “Best Dressed”, “Best Trick” and “Look Alike”. One-hundred percent of proceeds from the $5 entry fee will support adoptions at the animal shelter. Then, enjoy a live acoustic performance by Becky Simon Band at 12:45 p.m.

“This community favorite, smaller expo-style event is a good way to encourage people to get some sunshine, enjoy each other's company and have plenty of space to move around, shop and enjoy the atmosphere of downtown," she said.

Parham added the expo will feature several pet-related vendors and artisans, offering everything from pet food and pet clothing to pet portraits. And a treat for the humans? Surrounding boutiques and shops will hold sidewalk sales throughout the day.

“We'll also have Paw Paws Peanuts for the humans and cold treats from Frozen Frenzee for the pups!” she said.

Adding to the excitement will be staffers and volunteers with the City of Gainesville, who will have in the Main Street Gainesville booth free dog food can covers for the first 100 people who stop by, Parham said.

“We’re also selling Mutts on Main T-shirts,” she said, in addition to other Gainesville- and Main Street-branded merch.

While you're there, consider donating a bag of dry cat or dog food (even treats!) benefitting pets belonging to beloved Gainesville-Hall County Meals on Wheels clients: https://fb.me/e/2vIjALeQa This pet food drive, hosted by the City in recognition of Georgia Cities Week April 23-29, strives to ensure every member of Meals on Wheels client families are well nourished and cared for. Donations will be accepted April 3-28 at various locations throughout the City, but your early contributions at Mutts on Main will help volunteers start off strong and see to it that no pet goes hungry.

All dogs are welcome, but must be leashed. Waste bags will be located throughout the square to help preserve the beauty of downtown Gainesville.

Find free and covered parking at any one of the following downtown parking decks, all located within walking distance to the historic square: Main Street Parking Deck, 301 Main St.; Gainesville North Parking Deck, 130 Main St.; and Hall County Parking Facility, 225 Green St.

Bradford Street will be closed during the event, and those traveling in the area are urged to drive carefully, and watch for pedestrians and pets.

For more information and updates, “Like” and follow @DowntownGainesvilleGA on Facebook or visit downtowngainesville.com.