Sixth annual Petoberfest brings miles of smiles
By: Shelia Mader
Petoberfest celebrated its sixth anniversary last Friday at Madison Street Park, and the scene couldn’t have been more perfect. The weather was sunny and comfortable, and the animals were not only entertaining but impressively well-behaved. Families turned out in full force, with children and adults alike enjoying the festivities. Coloring stations kept the young and creative busy, while booths lined the outer edge of the pavilion offering a variety of treats, crafts, and pet-related items.
The event wasn’t about adopting one of the many fur-babies available through Partners for Pets, but rather a day to celebrate the pets people already call family. Many owners dressed up their animals in imaginative costumes, delighting both the crowd and the judges of the ever-popular pet costume contest. The park was full of laughter, wagging tails, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Halle Weston, president of Partners for Pets, shared what makes the day special for the organization. “This is our sixth annual Petoberfest here at Madison Street Park in Marianna,” Weston said. “This fundraiser supports our local nonprofit, no-kill shelter. We’re actually the only no-kill shelter within a 50-mile radius, so we’re out here raising money, having fun, and connecting with our community.”
In addition to the costume contest, guests enjoyed live music, hayrides, a haunted house, and a variety of games and activities for kids. Food trucks and vendors were on hand throughout the day, creating a lively, festival atmosphere.
For those who couldn’t make it to the event, Weston encouraged continued involvement with Partners for Pets. “We’re very active on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram,” she said. “Anyone who wants to help can volunteer at the shelter on Maintenance Drive off Penn Avenue, walk dogs, spend time with cats, or lend a hand wherever needed. We’re also often set up at local events like Walmart, and we’ve even partnered with American Charlie’s in Panama City Beach.”
As the day came to a close, Weston reflected on the community support that makes Petoberfest possible. “We’re just feeling super blessed,” she said. “I can’t thank my board members, employees, volunteers, and everyone in the community enough for showing up and supporting us year after year.”
Petoberfest may last only one day, but its spirit of love, gratitude, and connection between people and their pets continues to ripple through the community long after the tents come down and the last leash is packed away.
