For the first time in its 22 years, PAWfest will be held at a new, bigger location: Briscoe Park in Snellville. The Gwinnett Humane Society has partnered with the City of Snellville to host this popular event on Saturday, May 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Over the years, PAWfest has grown to be one of “Gwinnett’s Best Local Festivals”, as published in Gwinnett Magazine’s Best of Gwinnett, celebrating the human-pet bond while raising community awareness and educating the public on pet-related issues, such as responsible pet ownership and encouraging the adoption and spaying and neutering of companion animals.

Admission to PAWfest is free and all dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash. Activities include the annual Pack Hike, food and entertainment, vendors, canine demos and contests, live music, a silent auction and activities for the kids!

The fun kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on May 14 with the PAWfest Pack Hike, a two-mile hike on the trail surround Briscoe Park. Slower “hikers” can opt for the one-mile Puppy Hike route. Leashed dogs are encouraged to participate in this activity and registered hikers will receive a goodie bag and commemorative T-shirt.

At the festival, enter your pooch in one of the dog contests! Prizes will be awarded for best costume, trick and kisser as well as largest dog and bobbing for hot dogs. However, before your furry friend enters one of the dog contests, make sure they are in tip-top shape. There will be free nail trims and Project CatSnip is offering low-cost rabies shots, vaccinations and microchips from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Some human-friendly fun at PAWfest will include face painting, a cakewalk and a silent auction where a variety of items will be bid on, from tickets to Atlanta-themed events to pet-themed baskets. Visit www.PAWfest.com for a complete schedule of events and activities.