Nampa Parks & Recreation is inviting Canyon County dog owners and their four-legged companions to the 18th Annual Pooch Party, set for Saturday, August 29 at Lakeview Park near the swimming pool. The event runs from morning check-in through early afternoon, featuring a packed schedule of activities for dogs and their families.
What to Expect at Lakeview Park
Vendor booths and check-in open at 8:30 a.m., giving attendees time to browse pet-friendly exhibitors before the main events kick off. The foam party runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., while the one-mile walk begins at 9:30 a.m. VIP swim access starts at 10 a.m., with the general swimming pool opening at 11 a.m. Canine Cake Walks and contests are scheduled from 10:45 a.m. through 12:45 p.m., and the event wraps up at 1 p.m.
Dogs can compete in several contests throughout the morning, including a Costume Contest, a Look-a-Like competition, Super Dog Tricks, and the Canine Cake Walk. Whether your dog is a show-stopper or just along for the swim, there’s something on the schedule to keep tails wagging.
Registration Details and Proceeds
Registration for the first dog is $30 through August 25, rising to $35 after that date. Each additional dog costs $15. Every registration package includes a t-shirt, a dog bandanna, and admission for one dog. All proceeds from the event go toward supporting Nampa’s dog parks, making participation a direct investment in local pet amenities that Canyon County families use year-round.
Dog owners can sign up online at nampaparks.org or in person at Harward Recreation Center. For questions, organizers can be reached at 208-468-5858. The event is sponsored by Camp Bow Wow, ICCU, and Horizon Credit Union.
What Comes Next
With the early registration deadline falling on August 25, Nampa-area residents have just over a week to lock in the lower registration rate. The Pooch Party joins a busy stretch of late-summer community events in Canyon County — including the 139th Canyon County Fair in Caldwell, which recently drew large crowds with live music, livestock, and family entertainment.
Lakeview Park is a well-known gathering spot for Nampa families, and the annual Pooch Party has grown into one of the most anticipated warm-weather events on the local calendar. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning regular, organizers encourage early registration to take advantage of the discounted rate before August 25.