Picnic with Your Pup
A C.A.R.E.-ing Community Event
Downtown Skokie Pet Picnic & Outdoor Festival
Thursday, July 9, 2026 , 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
A joyful community celebration to benefit C.A.R.E. (Community Animal Rescue Effort)
Get ready for a tail-wagging summer evening in Downtown Skokie! Paws & Picnics is a joyful outdoor community event benefiting Community Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.), bringing together pets, people, local businesses, food, and fun for a relaxed picnic-style celebration.
This year’s event is a reimagined version of last year’s incredibly successful pet parade. We originally expected a small gathering and were thrilled when more than 80 guests registered to participate. This year, we’re creating an even more festive and welcoming experience for pets and their people.
The event takes place in a designated outdoor festival space behind Take Flight Spirits, RJ Breaks, and Kneads and Wants Bakery. The area will be sectioned off exclusively for the picnic, creating a safe and comfortable environment for guests to gather, eat, relax, and enjoy the evening together with their pets.
Entry to the event will be through the alley off the Lincoln Avenue parking lot at the head of Warren Street.
How the Event Works
Admission to the event is included with the purchase of a picnic pack. Each picnic pack includes:
Admission for one human and one pet
A picnic-style meal from a participating Downtown Skokie business
Access to all event activities, entertainment, giveaways, and pet-friendly experiences
Additional humans or pets may be added separately.
Picnic packs are created by participating Downtown Skokie restaurants and food businesses and may include sandwiches, salads, pastries, snack boxes, or other picnic-friendly meals designed to be enjoyed outdoors.
Beverages, human treats and dogs treats will be available for purchase during the event at:
Kneads and Wants Bakery
Take Flight Spirits
What to Expect at the Event
Throughout the evening, guests and pets can enjoy:
Pet-friendly outdoor seating areas
Music and entertainment
Professional pet photo sessions
Paw print art station
One-on-one time with expert trainers
Giveaways and free samples
Pet-themed shopping and sponsor booths
Community fun with fellow animal lovers
Whether your pet loves making new friends or prefers lounging quietly beside a picnic blanket, this event is designed to celebrate the bond between pets and the people who love them.
Supporting Local
Paws & Picnics supports both local rescue efforts and the Downtown Skokie small business community. A portion of the event benefits Community Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.), a local organization dedicated to helping animals find safe, loving homes.
By purchasing a picnic pack, guests directly support participating Downtown Skokie businesses while helping raise funds and awareness for animals in need.
Important Information
Most meals are designed to be served cold or at room temperature
Pets must remain leashed and supervised at all times
Please help us keep the event area clean and pet-friendly for everyone
Bring your favorite furry friend, enjoy a summer evening outdoors, and celebrate community, local businesses, and animals in need together.
