Come! Sit! Stay! at Cardiff’s Dog Days

Cardiff by the Sea is ready to celebrate man’s best friend with the annual Dog Days of Summer, coming Aug. 9. This one-day street fair for dogs and dog lovers runs from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Newcastle Ave, Aberdeen Drive and Liverpool Drive.

The free event, hosted by Cardiff 101 Main Street, is expected to draw 10,000 four-legged friends, their fans and family members.

Beginning at 10 a.m., watch or enter 10 different dog contests including Best Kisser, Best Smile and Best Dressed. New this year, musical talents will be showcased in the afternoon with Tolan Shaw at 1 p.m and Trouble in the Wind at 3 p.m.

Highlights this year include a Blessing of the Dogs by the Tibetan Meditation Center, the Lost Abbey beer garden, in-store sales from Dirty Dogs, more than 250 booths including pet adoptions from local shelters and rescue organizations as well as specialty pet products and services, food vendors, an agility course sponsored by Zoom Room, a doggie photo booth courtesy of Photography by Gabriela, doggie cool zones, an expanded kids’ zone and a large silent auction! Come enjoy this community event. You may even meet your new furry best friend!

Catch the free shuttle from Encinitas City Hall (505 S. Vulcan, Encinitas). Proceeds benefit local animal charities and Cardiff 101 Main Street, which sponsors other community events throughout the year. Visit www.cardiffdogdaysofsummer.com.