Get ready to celebrate Pride Month with your furry friend. Woof Fest: Paws for Pride is officially returning for its sixth year. You can leave the standard dog park behind and head to Manhattan West Plaza for a fabulous afternoon of community celebrations.
The event takes place this Saturday, June 6, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. It is completely free and open to the public. You just need to sign a quick digital waiver before entering.
Strut down the Walk of Pride
The absolute highlight of the afternoon is the signature “Walk of Pride” Catwalk Contest. You and your pup are invited to dress to impress and hit the runway starting at 1:30 PM. Flamboyant accessories and colorful costumes are highly encouraged.
You do not need to register in advance. Simply sign up on-site for a chance to win fun prizes. The contest features two distinct categories: Most Pride: Dog and Most Pride: Prideful Pair (for you and your dog).
The runway will be judged by an incredible lineup of local talent. Expect to see drag queen Essa Noche, drag king Mr. Pleasure, and Broadway singer Emily Schultheis.
Catch fierce live performances
The energy will be high all afternoon. Comedian Jaye McBride and DJ Softee are hosting the event and providing the perfect soundtrack for the day.
Starting at 12:30 PM, you can catch live on-stage performances. The showcase includes fierce drag sets by Queen Essa Noche and King Mr Pleasure. Broadway’s Emily Schultheis and DJ Softee will also take the stage to keep the crowd moving.
Free activities across the plaza
Beyond the main stage, there is plenty to do with your dog from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
- Paw Print Parlor: Create a customized, non-toxic paw print craft to take home in a colorful magnetic frame.
- Tattoos Paw-lor: Grab some fabulous temporary tattoos to complete your Pride outfit.
- Wags & Wisdom: Get free three-minute training advice sessions with expert dog trainer Eric Vissichelli.
Give back to the community
Celebrating Pride is also about supporting the local community. During the festival, attendees can help pack hygiene kits for the youth of The Ali Forney Center.
The center is dedicated to protecting LGBTQ+ and at-risk youth from homelessness. You can help out by personalizing the essential kits with stickers, markers, and encouraging messages for the teens.
📅 Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
📍 Manhattan West Plaza (385 9th Avenue, Midtown)
🎟️ Free and open to the public (waiver required for entry)
