McKinney, Texas -- Downtown McKinney will be awash in wagging tails, pirate pups, and seafaring canines at the 24th annual Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras dog parade and festival on Sunday, Feb. 15. This year’s theme, “Dogs Going Overboard: Barkus Sails the Seven Seas,” invites four-legged revelers and their humans to don their best nautical, pirate, and ocean inspired costumes for an afternoon of family friendly fun.
Krewe of Barkus begins at 12:30 p.m. at Dr. Glenn Mitchell Memorial Park, 300 W. Louisiana St., just west of the historic downtown commercial district. Attendees can enjoy pet related and general vendors before the parade steps off at 2 p.m. with hundreds of participating dogs and owners parading through Historic Downtown McKinney.
The parade will feature a variety of dog costume award categories, including Best in Show, Most Creative, Best Dog-Owner Combo, Best Group, and Best Use of Theme. Participants are encouraged to let their creativity shine and embrace the swashbuckling spirit of the sea.
Patterned after the legendary Krewe of Barkus parade in New Orleans, the McKinney event features a festive parade, costume contest, vendor booths, and Pawty in the Park. Animals in need of a home will also be available for adoption.
Dog and float registration is $5 per entry. Online registration is available through Feb. 14. Mark your calendar and join us for an afternoon of nautical nonsense and tail wagging fun as Barkus sails the seven seas in downtown McKinney.
The title sponsor for Krewe of Barkus is Tomes Auto Group. For more information, visit DowntownMcKinney.com or call 972-547-2651.
photos by Allen Rich
