The fourth annual Luckypawlooza, a fundraising event that supports the Lucky Dog Refuge and upgrades to Mill River's Dog Park, kicks off this weekend.
"Every dog at Lucky Dog Refuge has a story-they come to us from heartbreaking situations with no options left," said co-founder and CEO of Lucky Dog Refuge Kirstin Mende via email. "Luckypawlooza gives those dogs a voice. The funds we raise help cover their medical care, enrichment and daily needs, but it also gives our community the chance to see the faces and wagging tails they're helping. It's hope, brought to life."

Rain or shine Mill River Park in Stamford will be full of families and individuals with their four-legged friends on Saturday, Oct. 18 and Sunday, Oct. 19 from noon to 5 p.m. Attendees can park in applicable town lots and garages. Also, the UCONN parking lot is free on the weekends and available on a first come, first serve basis.

Lucky Dog Refuge reported on its website that over 1,500 people attended last year's event, and they are anticipating an even bigger turnout and an even better event.
"Luckypawlooza is pure joy in motion," said board member of Lucky Dog Refuge and event co-chair Kristen Roeckle via email. "It's where wagging tails meet smiling faces, and where compassion turns into action. It is about community, connection and making a difference in the lives of both animals and people. We're proud to host an event where families can have fun, support local entrepreneurs and help rescue dogs all at once-it's the best of Stamford coming together."

Presented by Magna Construction, Luckypawlooza will be hosted by social media duo Sam Ramsdell and Oooh Jaaames. 

"Supporting Lucky Dog Refuge is an easy choice," said Magna Construction owner Frank Lovello via email. "Their passion for saving lives and building community mirrors our own values-and Luckypawlooza captures that spirit perfectly."
New this yearNew to Luckypawlooza this year, according to Mende, are activities such as the Maritime Aquarium touch tank; Reishi's rocks crystal mining and geode cracking with The Gardener's Center and painting workshops in the park with Pinot's Palette. Also new is the charity fitness classes hosted by Stamford's Lifetime Fitness and Pure Barre that will be held outdoors on the rooftop of the Whittingham Discovery Center; a panel discussion with local rescue advocates and a new digital guidebook.


EntertainmentAttendees can look forward to live entertainment and an array of interactive activities for all ages such as games, best costume contest and "Biggest Gape" (mouth) competitions-a challenge to Ramsdell's Guinness World Record for being the female with the widest mouth.
There will also be a kid's zone with an inflatable slide, face painting, crafts and more.

Of course, the dogs get to have their time to shine with the Alpha Dog Fun Run, best trick and costume contests, training demos, photo opportunities at themed backdrops and photo booths, pet-focused vendors and more. There will also be adoptable dogs there as well.
FoodLuckypawlooza will have an array of food trucks including American Swirl, Los Poblanos, Cousins Maine Lobster, Greek Style Grill and more. There will also be the Licker Cabinet Beer Garden, the Barkista Bar serving up "pup cups" and treats for the dogs and local artisans and crafters.


TicketsWhile the event is free for children under 12 there is a small fee for adults and kids over 12, but proceeds will go directly to supporting Lucky Dog Refuge, a Stamford-based nonprofit organization that focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs in need. The money will also contribute to community improvements, including enhancements to the Mill River Park Dog Park. Admission for adults is $10 for one day or $18 for two days. Admission for seniors and kids over 12 is $5 for one day or $8 for two days.