Warm Hearts, Cold Noses: The Ultimate Guide to Twin Cities Pet Events This Winter (2024-25)
- Lauren
- Nov 28, 2024
- 23 min read
Updated: Mar 30
Winter has arrived in Minnesota, and I'm embracing the chilly magic of the season! If you're a fan of snow-dusted landscapes, cozy moments, and all things holiday, this guide to Twin Cities pet events this winter is for you. From December to February, there's plenty to keep you and your pup enjoying every frosty moment the season has to offer. Get ready for a winter filled with festive lights, seasonal treats, and endless snowy adventures!
The Ultimate Guide to Twin Cities Pet Events This Winter
Categories:
Pet-Friendly Art Fairs & Festivals
Dog Sports & Activities
Holiday Photo Opportunities NEW for Winter
Pet-Focused Events:
Sunday, December 1, 2024
Lost in the Forrest, St. Louis Park, MN
Organized by: K Schulz Photography & Lost in the Forrest
"Capture your furry friend's personality with pet photography mini sessions by K Schulz Photography. In just 10 minutes, our talented photographer will produce a collection of high-quality images. Included in the mini session are your choice of two of the digital images, with the option to purchase more. Head to LITF and arrive 5-10 minutes early to ensure a perfect session."
Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 4 - 8 pm
Miracle at Big Rock, St. Croix Falls, WI
Organized by: Miracle at Big Rock
"Join us on December 1 for a magical evening at Miracle at Big Rock, where you and your furry friend can celebrate the Christmas season together! Bring your dog for free, with your paid admission and enjoy festive activities that will make your Christmas dreams come true. Capture the joy of the season with professional photos of your pup with Santa—perfect for your Christmas cards! Photo packages will be available for those adorable, candid shots that you won't want to miss. We're also excited to partner with Can Do Canines and Ruff Start Rescue, adding a special touch to this festive night. Don't miss out on this "pawsome" celebration with your four-legged companion! Mark your calendars and get ready for a night filled with joy, laughter, and holiday spirit at Miracle at Big Rock! All dogs must be leashed and picked up after. No dogs allowed in our barn or indoor food court space."
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Pet Crossing Animal Hospital, Bloomington, MN
Organized by: K Schulz Photography & Pet Crossing Animal Hospital
"The holidays are fast approaching and it's the perfect time to create memories! On Sunday, December 8th, Pet Crossing will have K Schulz Photography on-site, ready to capture the perfect holiday pictures! Let us help make this holiday season paws-itively unforgettable!"
Thursday, December 19 - Saturday, December 21, 2024
Downtown Stillwater, MN
Organized by: Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce
"Get in the holiday spirit and dress up with your pet! This weekend highlights our favorite furry friends! Thursday, December 19: Luminary Thursday! Stroll into the evening along Main Street Stillwater, illuminated by the warm glow of luminaries, as you explore charming shops and dine at our fabulous restaurants. Saturday, December 21: Pet Parade + Costume Contest! Join us for a whimsical pet parade on historic Main Street! Bring your furry friends dressed in their festive best as we celebrate the holiday season with a parade led by none other than the Grinch. Watch as pets of all shapes and sizes strut their stuff, showcasing their holiday spirit and creativity! Prizes for best dressed and most unique costumes! Each participant will receive a special swag bag filled with goodies for both pets & their humans. Grand Prize Winner receives a one-night stay at Lora Hotel!"
Thursday, January 2 - Sunday, January 5, 2025
St. Paul River Centre, St. Paul, MN
Organized by: Land O'Lakes Kennel Club
"On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, owners of new puppies ages 4-6 months old are invited by AKC to enter a fun, interactive mock dog show geared strictly for puppies. Experts with a variety of breeds will be available on Saturday and Sunday. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with experts on certain dog breeds and meet the breeds up close to learn more. On Saturday, the future of the dog world will compete in a junior handling competition that recognizes young handlers from the entire Midwest area. Shop at the over 20 booths featuring everything you want for you or your dog at the Ringside Market."
Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 1 - 5 pm
Back Channel Brewing Co., Spring Park, MN
Organized by: Klondike Dog Derby
"Join us for our 5th-annual Cutest Puppy Contest Fundraiser at Back Channel Brewing Company! Contest Details: Vaccinated puppies born after 1/25/24 are eligible. $25 entry fee for the puppies (not the hooomans) includes a raffle entry for a $250 Klondike merch bundle. Register your pup in person, or online at klondikedogderby.com/cutestpuppy. Pups must be registered by 2:00pm on 1/25 to be included in the contest. (Max 60 pups)"
Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 10 am - 3 pm
Union Depot, St. Paul, MN
Organized by: Union Depot
"Activities, vendors, and shopping galore! If your pooch only puts one thing on their social agendog this winter, make it Doggie Depot 2025. On Saturday, February 1, from 10 AM to 3 PM, Union Depot will be transformed into Doggie Depot, the bark of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival. There will be pet-friendly vendors for shopping, rescues for adoption, the crowning of the St. Paul Winter Carnival’s Canine King Boreas and Canine Queen of Snows at 11 AM, and tons more fun! Doggie Depot 2025 is FREE and open to the public, with plenty of on-site parking. No tickets are required, so leash up your pup and join us for this furbulous event inside the Waiting Room at Union Depot!"
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Theodore Wirth Regional Park, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: The Loppet Foundation
"Ski with your best friend… your dog! 10K, 5K, and 3K courses on the premiere Loppet ski trails (which skijors are not normally allowed on) make the Loppet’s Skijoring One-dog Loppet a participant and fan favorite event. You will see all sizes and shapes of doggos out for adventure with their human pals."
Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Unleashed Hounds & Hops, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Unleashed Hounds & Hops
"Looking for a fun and easy way to meet other LGBTQIA+ folks? Whether you're looking for love or hoping to make new friends, this event offers a safe and inclusive environment to connect with others. A ticket purchase gets you (and an optional pup) entry to Unleashed, one drink ticket, and an evening of fun, informal activities with other LGBTQIA+ singles."
Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 6:30 - 10 pm
Leopold's Mississippi Gardens, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: Inspire & Flourish
"Mark your calendars for the Annual Fashions for Furry Friends Fashion Show! This dog-friendly event will be held from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM on March 8, 2025, at Leopold's Mississippi Gardens in Minneapolis, MN, US. Admission is $30. Leashed and well-behaved dogs are welcome to attend this glamorous evening dedicated to raising funds for animal rescues! Guests will enjoy a live auction featuring exciting prizes like vacations, private chef dinners, and a diverse silent auction. Meet adorable, adoptable animals showcased by rescue groups strutting down the runway."
Annual Photos for Foster Animals Event
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Tonkadale Greenhouse, Minnetonka, MN
Organized by: KME Photography, K Schulz Photography, and Scruff Life Photography
"KME Photography, Scruff Life Photography, and K Schulz Photography are excited to offer a morning of FREE professional photos for your FOSTER pets! RSVPs are required. You'll bring your foster to Tonkadale during your assigned time on Sunday, March 16th, and we'll take a few fun images for their adoption listing. Dogs, cats, and other pets are welcome as long as they aren't a flight risk. Tonkadale is a dog-friendly business and customers with dogs will be there throughout the morning so please leave reactive dogs at home. By attending this event, you agree that you have permission from your rescue organization and that any photos taken may be used for promotional purposes. All animals must remain leashed. This is for adoptable animals only, no personal pets. Images will be available for download after the event, via a link on this page and our business pages."
Pet-Friendly Art Fairs & Festivals:
Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 11 am - 4 pm
Wildlife Science Center, Stacy, MN
Organized by: Wildlife Science Center
"It's the holiday season, and that means it's time for our Howling Holiday Celebration! Come carol with the wolves, shop at our vendors' booths and watch Ricky the black bear peacefully slumber! Santa has also let us know that he'll be here, so get a photo with your fur kids or human kids! Warm your hands over a crackling fire and your tummies with The Rustic Chef Food Truck, Flying Cloud and Bent Brewstillery! Dogs on a leash are always welcome."
Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 11 am - 4 pm
Wildlife Science Center, Stacy, MN
Organized by: Wildlife Science Center
"Discover the world of the dog sledder during a day of winter fun at the Wildlife Science Center. Mushers and their dog teams will be on hand to meet and inform participants about this incredible winter sport. The day's activities include demonstrations by local experts on equipment and techniques, a variety of vendors selling their wares, campfires, and the opportunity to see and learn about the Wildlife Science Center's amazing animals. Feel free to bring your dog but please bring a leash. At 2:00 pm, join us for “Songs and Stories of Siberian Huskies, Sledding with Dogs, and Developing a Successful Relationship with Your Little Canine Trail Buddy,” a presentation by musher Patti and John & Bob from the Workin’ Dogs band."
Saturday, January 25 (9 am - 5 pm) - Sunday, January 26, 2025 (9 am - 4 pm)
Exhibition Hall, Saint Paul RiverCentre, St. Paul, MN
Organized by: Saintly City Cat Club
Admission: $10 for adults, $7 for children and seniors
"Join us at the Winter Carnival Cat Show to support Ruff Start Rescue and help give animals a fresh beginning! Join us at the Saint Paul RiverCentre- Exhibition Hall for a purrfect day filled with adorable cats! Visit the Ruff Start Rescue booth to learn about volunteering, fostering, and adopting. Whether you're an animal lover or looking to add a new furry family member, this event is not to be missed."
Saturday, February 1 - Sunday, February 2, 2024
Theodore Wirth Regional Park, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: The Loppet Foundation
"Growing from a once humble cross-country ski race in 2003, the City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival has come to be the staple event of winter in the North. The City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival is a two-day festival that includes a variety of point-to-point Cross-Country Ski, Fat Bike, Skijor, and Snowshoe events, both competitive races and recreational touring events through Theodore Wirth Park; and a number of unique events, such as the Kubb Tournament. The City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival will now keep the fun going over two weekends with a two-day festival on the first weekend in February and the Luminary Loppet (also the Loppet’s largest fundraiser of the year!) on the second Saturday in February."
Pet-Related Benefit Events:
Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 1 - 5 pm
HeadFlyer Brewing, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Ruff Start Rescue
"Join us for one of our favorite and longest-standing annual holiday traditions, Pet Photos with Santa on December 1st 2024 from 1 pm - 5 pm! Pet photos are free, but we will be collecting donations for Ruff Start Rescue a foster-based animal rescue. We'll also have a few pop-up shops and brand new holiday-themed beer releases!"
Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 5 - 8 pm
Unleashed Hounds and Hops, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Great Dane Rescue of MN & WI
"Join us for our Second Annual Pet Holiday Photo fundraiser at Unleashed Hounds and Hops! $20 will get you a digital photo of you and your pup(s) from our photographer with each additional image being $10. A sitting is $20 regardless of the number of dogs or humans in the photo. Reward your pup for their Holiday posing and finish off the visit with a playdate in the park! The photos will take place in the lobby so all dogs are welcome for photos whether you would like to stay and play or not."
Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 10 am - 2 pm
Chuck & Don's, Woodbury, MN
Organized by & Benefitting: RAGOM (Retrieve a Golden of the Midwest)
"Join us for some fun family photos with Santa Paws! Photos will be delivered within 1 week digitally and we are asking for a $10 donation to go towards the dogs in our care."
Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11 am - 1 pm
Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota (AERC), Oakdale, MN
Benefitting: Pets on the Mend
"Welcome to Pet Portraits with Santa at Festive Besties Pet Holiday Bazaar! Join us for a fun-filled day of capturing precious moments with your furry friends and Santa Claus. This in-person event will be held at 1160 Helmo Ave N where you can enjoy shopping for unique pet gifts and goodies. Don't miss out on this paws-itively delightful experience! All net proceeds will support our non-profit, Pets on the Mend. For pet portraits with Santa, please bring only non-aggressive, well-socialized, non-venomous pets. Horses, livestock, pigs, primates, raptors, and venomous snakes or lizards are not permitted. Dogs must be on a leash, while other pets need to be in a carrier, cage, or enclosure. If you’d like Santa to hold your bird, it must be in a cage or unable to fly. All pets must have up-to-date vaccinations and be pre-registered for portraits."
Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 11 am - 2 pm
Maplebrook Pet Care Center, Maplewood, MN
Benefitting: MN Pocket Pet Rescue
"HO HO HO! Come pose your paws for a cause with Santa Claus at Maplebrook Pet Care Center. With a minimum donation of $20, you will receive a professional holiday photo (with or without Santa). All proceeds will benefit MN Pocket Pet Rescue so they may continue providing care for their animals in rescue and community outreach programs.
Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 12 - 3 pm
Bauhaus Brew Labs, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Ruff Start Rescue
"Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at Bauhaus Brew Labs in Minneapolis on Sunday, December 15th, from 12-3 pm. Photos with the Grinch (for humans & dogs): The venue is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring along your pup! Donations are greatly appreciated. Photos will be sent by email within a few days. Ruff Start will also have adoptable dogs, ways to get involved, and giveaways. We will share the adoptable dogs you can meet at this event a few days prior on the Facebook event page. Plus, enjoy delicious brews while supporting a great cause. $1 per beer sold on 12/15 will be donated to Ruff Start Rescue to support animals in rescue. We hope to see you there!"
Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 11 am - 2 pm
Urban Tails Pet Supply, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Mission Animal Hospital
"Bring your fur babies to Urban Tails for a paw-sitively delightful photo op with Santa! Photos are $10 and all proceeds benefit Mission Animal Hospital! First come, first serve, in the event space at Urban Tails!"
Sunday, December 22, 2024, from 12 - 3 pm
Inbound BrewCo, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Ruff Start Rescue
"Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at Inbound BrewCo in Minneapolis on Sunday, December 22nd, from 12-3 pm. Photos with Santa (for humans & dogs): The venue is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring along your pup! Donations are greatly appreciated. Photos will be sent by email a few days after the event. Ruff Start will also have adoptable dogs, ways to get involved, and giveaways. We will share the adoptable dogs you can meet at this event a few days prior on the Facebook event page. Plus, enjoy delicious brews while supporting a great cause. $1 per beer sold on 12/22 will be donated to Ruff Start Rescue to support rescue animals. We hope to see you there!"
Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 7:30 - 10 am
Unleashed Hounds & Hops, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Underdog Rescue MN
"Join us for more fur, fun, and fitness with adoptable dogs from Underdog! Hailey instructs this 45-50 minute pilates class, followed by a social hour with adoptable pups from Underdog Rescue! Note that the 7:30 start time factors in 30 minutes for pre-class socialization/check-in, class will begin around 8 am. Tickets are $40 which includes a drink for after class plus a $10 donation to Underdog!"
Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 12 - 2 pm
Underdog Rescue, St. Louis Park, MN
Benefitting: Underdog Rescue MN
"Valentine Mini Sessions at and benefitting Underdog Rescue MN. $50 for 10 minutes and 4 digital images from KME Photography."
Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 10 am - 1 pm
Tonkadale Greenhouse, Minnetonka, MN
Benefitting: NDLB Rescue
"Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style -because love comes with wagging tails and slobbery kisses too! Join Kelly of K Schulz Photography for a heartwarming mini pet portrait session in our pet-friendly greenhouse. This lush and vibrant setting provides the perfect backdrop to capture the special bond you share with your beloved pet(s). $30/session, prints and digitals are sold separately. 50% of the session fee will be donated to No Dog Left Behind."
Friday, February 14, 2025, from 5 - 8 pm
Forgotten Star Brewing Co., Fridley, MN
Benefitting: Ruff Start Rescue
"Don't have a human significant other in your life? Bring your pup out for a Valentine's Day they'll never forget! Join us at Forgotten Star Brewing in Fridley this Valentine's Day for "Dating with Dogs," a singles social & dog-friendly Valentine's Day event & fundraiser for pet lovers! Whether you're single or not, own a pup or are just a dog lover, everyone is invited to come out, celebrate love & enjoy other dog lovers' company! For those who are single, maybe you might just meet the love of your life!"
Saturday, February 22, 2025, starting at 11:00 am
10K Brewing, Anoka, MN
Benefitting: FaerieLand Rescue
"Looking for yoga with an adorable twist? Join us at 10K Brewing with FaerieLand Rescue and find your new furry best friend! No previous yoga experience needed. Yoga mats are not provided. Participants must be 18 years or old unless accompanied by an adult that has also purchased a ticket to that same class."
Saturday, March 1, 2025, starting at 9:00 am
Brühaven Craft Company, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Warrior Dog Rescue
"Looking for a yoga class with an adorable twist? Join us at Bruhaven Craft Company and enjoy 45 minutes of yoga, where adorable dogs/puppies from Warrior Dog Rescue will roam freely around the room while you go through the yoga flow sequence. No previous yoga experience needed. Yoga mats are not provided. Participants must be 18 years or old unless accompanied by an adult that has also purchased a ticket to that same class."
Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 10 am - 3 pm
The Wilderness Fitness & Coworking, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Healing Hearts Rescue
"Join us at The Wilderness Fitness & Coworking for a group session of PUPPY YOGA to support Healing Heart Rescue's mission to find safe and loving homes for animals in need. Through the power of rescue, lives will be saved, hearts will be healed and you might find yourself asking “Who Rescued Whom." Our instructor, Genvieve, will lead adorable sessions of Puppy Yoga here at The Wilderness on March 2, 2025. Limited spots are available. Select a timeslot at ticket purchase. Each session will last 50 minutes."
Sunday, March 2, 2025, starting at 10:00 am
Inbound BrewCo, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: UnbreakaBULL Pit Bull Rescue
"Looking for a yoga class with an adorable twist? Join us at Inbound BrewCo and enjoy 45 minutes of yoga, where adorable dogs/puppies from UnbreakaBULL Pit Bull Rescue will roam freely around the room while you go through the yoga flow sequence. No previous yoga experience needed. Yoga mats are not provided. Participants must be 18 years or old unless accompanied by an adult that has also purchased a ticket to that same class."
Dog Sports & Activities:
Saturday, December 7, 2024, starting at 7:30 am
White Bear Lake County Park, White Bear Lake, MN
Organized by: MM Races
Admission: $10 - $40 (registration required)
"In keeping with the jingle theme, your registration will include jingle bells for your running shoes. This event is open to all abilities and ages and well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. Dig out your Santa outfits and hats and join in the fun. A professional photographer will be on-site to capture those great family memories. Finish the race and enjoy the decorated shops and restaurants of quaint downtown White Bear Lake."
Saturday, January 5, 2025
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Led by: @lucy.goosey018
Location: Theodore Wirth Park, Minneapolis, MN
Admission: Free (sign up here)
Lake Minnetonka Klondike Dog Derby -- CANCELLED (due to lack of snow)
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior, MN
Organized by: Lake Minnetonka Klondike Dog Derby
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Theodore Wirth Regional Park, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: The Loppet Foundation
"Ski with your best friend… your dog! 10K, 5K, and 3K courses on the premiere Loppet ski trails (which skijors are not normally allowed on) make the Loppet’s Skijoring One-dog Loppet a participant and fan favorite event. You will see all sizes and shapes of doggos out for adventure with their human pals."
Skijoring Group Class - CANCELLED
Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 9 - 10:30 am
Baker Park Reserve, Orono, MN
Organized by: Jack and the Pack
Cost: $60/person
"Want to learn new ways to stay active year-round with your dog? At this clinic, featuring K-9 Powered Sports, you will learn about equipment, commands, training techniques and trail etiquette for skijoring and more. Equipment will be provided for you and your dog to go skijoring on a guided trail ride. For dogs and owners ready to take the next step with any of the activities featured, there will be experts onsite to fit you and your dog for equipment available for purchase. There will also be information provided about future clinics and events for those that want more instruction on specific activities. Dogs must be kept on a leash and should be friendly around others. Day of registration is available if space allows."
Saturday, February 8, 2025, starting at 10 am
Riverbend Nature Center, Faribault, MN
Organized by: Howling Adventurer LLC
Cost: $50/person
"Howling Adventurer LLC was excited to bring back a skijor race in southern MN. However, with the lack of snow, we are switching to a canix/bike race! We have partnered with River Bend Nature Center in Faribault, MN, and K9Powered Sports to bring you the Fido Dash Freeze!"
Saturday, February 8, 2025, starting at 10 am
Ritter Farm Park, Lakeville, MN
Organized by: Run the Ritter
Cost: $45/person
"We are excited to bring the sport of Canicross to Run The Ritter. We are working collaboratively with experts in the sport that will assist with the check-in process for the Canicross division to ensure the right equipment is being used for the safety of the dog and human. It is our hope that offering this sport at our event will aid in the education of what Canicross is and for those that run their dogs with a leash, to learn more about this dog-powered sport."
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Organized by: Hiking Dogs Co.
Led by: @lucy.goosey018
Location: Big Loop Nature Trail, Edina, MN
Admission: Free (sign up here)
Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 1 - 6 pm
Fish Lake Regional Park, Maple Grove, MN
Organized by: YMCA of the North
Cost: $39/person
"Husky sled dogs brought life-saving medicine from Anchorage to Nome in 1925 in what's known as the "Race of Mercy," saving thousands. That journey is re-created each year at Alaska's famed Iditarod race. Be part of this hero's journey right here in Minnesota, at Kidarod -- a two-mile adventure race for kids and families! This adventure race combines hiking, climbing, pulling and sliding around winter obstacles, with the ability to see real Husky sled dog puppies. Come join us for the 11th annual Kidarod, a fan-favorite, and learn how to be a Husky!"
Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 10 am - 2 pm
Battle Creek Recreation Area, Maplewood, MN
Organized by: Jack and the Pack & K9 Powered Sports
Cost: $50
"Join K9 Powered Sports and Jack and the Pack at Battle Creek Recreation Area for the Dog Days of Winter clinic & Open Skijoring! The Clinic will be for those who are new to skijoring and would benefit from some foundational mushing skills/information. If you don’t have any skijoring gear, we will bring gear for you and your dog to try and also buy if you’d like. You must already be comfortable with skate skiing and have your own skis. Day pass required $15. Sign up @jackandthepack.com or K9Powered.org"
Holiday Photo Opportunities:
Sunday, December 1, 2024
Lost in the Forrest, St. Louis Park, MN
Organized by: K Schulz Photography & Lost in the Forrest
"Capture your furry friend's personality with Pet Photography Mini Sessions by K Schulz Photography. In just 10 minutes, our talented photographer will produce a collection of high-quality images. Included in the mini session are your choice of two of the digital images, with the option to purchase more. Head to LITF and arrive 5-10 minutes early to ensure a perfect session."
Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 6:30 - 8 pm
Southdale Center, Edina, MN
Organized by: Southdale Center
"Don't miss Santa pictures at Southdale Center! Walk-ups are welcome every day until closing time. Please Note: Multiple families are scheduled during the selected 15-minute time."
Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 7 - 9 pm
Mall of America, Bloomington, MN
Organized by: The Santa Experience MN
"Bring your pet to Mall of America to have their photo taken with Santa! Appointment required. Pets of all kinds and their families are welcome to take part in this photo opportunity with Santa."
Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 1 - 5 pm
HeadFlyer Brewing, Minneapolis, MN
Organized by: HeadFlyer Brewing
Benefitting: Ruff Start Rescue
"Join us for one of our favorite and longest-standing annual holiday traditions, Pet Photos with Santa! Pet photos are free, but we will be collecting donations for Ruff Start Rescue a foster-based animal rescue. We'll also have a few pop-up shops and brand new holiday-themed beer releases!"
Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 4 - 8 pm
Miracle at Big Rock, St. Croix Falls, WI
Organized by: Miracle at Big Rock
"Join us on December 1 for a magical evening at Miracle at Big Rock, where you and your furry friend can celebrate the Christmas season together! Bring your dog for free, with your paid admission and enjoy festive activities that will make your Christmas dreams come true. Capture the joy of the season with professional photos of your pup with Santa—perfect for your Christmas cards! Photo packages will be available for those adorable, candid shots that you won't want to miss. We're also excited to partner with Can Do Canines and Ruff Start Rescue, adding a special touch to this festive night. Don't miss out on this "pawsome" celebration with your four-legged companion! Mark your calendars and get ready for a night filled with joy, laughter, and holiday spirit at Miracle at Big Rock! All dogs must be leashed and picked up after. No dogs allowed in our barn or indoor food court space."
Monday, December 2, 2024
Eden Prairie Center, Eden Prairie, MN
Organized by: VIP Holiday Photos
"Pet photos with Santa are back! Fur babies are family too and these photos are an adorable memento for you to share."
Monday, December 2, 2024
Rosedale Center, Roseville, MN
Organized by: VIP Holiday Photos
"Pet photos with Santa are back! Fur babies are family too and these photos are an adorable memento for you to share."
Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 5 - 8 pm
Unleashed Hounds and Hops, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Great Dane Rescue of MN & WI
"Join us for our Second Annual Pet Holiday Photo fundraiser at Unleashed Hounds and Hops! $20 will get you a digital photo of you and your pup(s) from our photographer with each additional image being $10. A sitting is $20 regardless of the number of dogs or humans in the photo. Reward your pup for their Holiday posing and finish off the visit with a playdate in the park! The photos will take place in the lobby so all dogs are welcome for photos whether you would like to stay and play or not."
Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 10 am - 2 pm
Chuck & Don's, Woodbury, MN
Benefitting: RAGOM (Retrieve a Golden of the Midwest)
"Join us for some fun family photos with Santa Paws! Photos will be delivered within 1 week digitally and we are asking for a $10 donation to go towards the dogs in our care."
Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11 am - 1 pm
Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota, Oakdale, MN
Benefitting: Pets on the Mend
"Welcome to Pet Portraits with Santa at Festive Besties Pet Holiday Bazaar! Join us for a fun-filled day of capturing precious moments with your furry friends and Santa Claus. This in-person event will be held at 1160 Helmo Ave N where you can enjoy shopping for unique pet gifts and goodies. Don't miss out on this paws-itively delightful experience! All net proceeds will support our non-profit, Pets on the Mend. For pet portraits with Santa, please bring only non-aggressive, well-socialized, non-venomous pets. Horses, livestock, pigs, primates, raptors, and venomous snakes or lizards are not permitted. Dogs must be on a leash, while other pets need to be in a carrier, cage, or enclosure. If you’d like Santa to hold your bird, it must be in a cage or unable to fly. All pets must have up-to-date vaccinations and be pre-registered for portraits."
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Pet Crossing Animal Hospital, Bloomington, MN
Organized by: K Schulz Photography & Pet Crossing Animal Hospital
"The holidays are fast approaching and it's the perfect time to create memories! On Sunday, December 8th, Pet Crossing will have K Schultz Photography on-site, ready to capture the perfect holiday pictures! Let us help make this holiday season paws-itively unforgettable!"
Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 11 am - 2 pm
Maplebrook Pet Care Center, Maplewood, MN
Benefitting: MN Pocket Pet Rescue
"HO HO HO! Come pose your paws for a cause with Santa Claus at Maplebrook Pet Care Center. With a minimum donation of $20, you will receive a professional holiday photo (with or without Santa). All proceeds will benefit MN Pocket Pet Rescue so they may continue providing care for their animals in rescue and community outreach programs.
Monday, December 9, 2024
Eden Prairie Center, Eden Prairie, MN
Organized by: VIP Holiday Photos
"Pet photos with Santa are back! Fur babies are family too and these photos are an adorable memento for you to share."
Monday, December 9, 2024
Rosedale Center, Roseville, MN
Organized by: VIP Holiday Photos
"Pet photos with Santa are back! Fur babies are family too and these photos are an adorable memento for you to share."
Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 11 am - 4 pm
Wildlife Science Center, Stacy, MN
Organized by: Wildlife Science Center
"It's the holiday season, and that means it's time for our Howling Holiday Celebration! Come carol with the wolves, shop at our vendors' booths and watch Ricky the black bear peacefully slumber! Santa has also let us know that he'll be here, so get a photo with your fur kids or human kids! Warm your hands over a crackling fire and your tummies with The Rustic Chef Food Truck, Flying Cloud and Bent Brewstillery! Dogs on a leash are always welcome."
Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 11 am - 2 pm
Urban Tails Pet Supply, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Mission Animal Hospital
"Bring your fur babies to Urban Tails for a paw-sitively delightful photo op with Santa! Photos are $10 and all proceeds benefit Mission Animal Hospital! First come, first serve, in the event space at Urban Tails!"
Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 12 - 3 pm
Bauhaus Brew Labs, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Ruff Start Rescue
"The venue is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring along your pup! Donations are greatly appreciated. Photos will be sent by email within a few days. Ruff Start will also have adoptable dogs, ways to get involved, and giveaways. We will share the adoptable dogs you can meet at this event a few days prior on the Facebook event page. Plus, enjoy delicious brews while supporting a great cause. $1 per beer sold on 12/15 will be donated to Ruff Start Rescue to support animals in rescue. We hope to see you there!"
Monday, December 16, 2024
Eden Prairie Center, Eden Prairie, MN
Organized by: VIP Holiday Photos
"Pet photos with Santa are back! Fur babies are family too and these photos are an adorable memento for you to share."
Monday, December 16, 2024
Rosedale Center, Roseville, MN
Organized by: VIP Holiday Photos
"Pet photos with Santa are back! Fur babies are family too and these photos are an adorable memento for you to share."
Sunday, December 22, 2024, from 12 - 3 pm
Inbound BrewCo, Minneapolis, MN
Benefitting: Ruff Start Rescue
"Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at Inbound BrewCo in Minneapolis on Sunday, December 22nd, from 12-3 pm. Photos with Santa (for humans & dogs): The venue is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring along your pup! Donations are greatly appreciated. Photos will be sent by email a few days after the event. Ruff Start will also have adoptable dogs, ways to get involved, and giveaways. We will share the adoptable dogs you can meet at this event a few days prior on the Facebook event page. Plus, enjoy delicious brews while supporting a great cause. $1 per beer sold on 12/22 will be donated to Ruff Start Rescue to support rescue animals. We hope to see you there!"
Monday, December 23, 2024
Eden Prairie Center, Eden Prairie, MN
Organized by: VIP Holiday Photos
"Pet photos with Santa are back! Fur babies are family too and these photos are an adorable memento for you to share."
Monday, December 30, 2024
Eden Prairie Center, Eden Prairie, MN
Organized by: VIP Holiday Photos
"Pet photos with Santa are back! Fur babies are family too and these photos are an adorable memento for you to share."
Add an Event:
Am I missing a Twin Cities pet event this fall? Do you have an upcoming event you'd like to add to a future blog post? Please submit your event here to get it added to this list! Thank you!
About Scruff Life Photography:
Hi, I'm Lauren, the pet-loving photographer behind Scruff Life Photography! Based in Minnesota, I specialize in capturing the unique bond between people and their beloved pets. Whether you’ve just welcomed a new furry friend into your life or are cherishing the years spent with a lifelong companion, I’m here to help you preserve those special moments. Pets are family, and their stories deserve to be celebrated with timeless, professional photos you’ll treasure forever. Let’s create something meaningful together — reach out today to schedule your pet photo session!
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