Paws in the Park & Chili Cookoff

Here’s a fun afternoon event that benefits the Charleston Animal Society, tireless advocate for our four-legged friends, and currently celebrating their 150th year.  In fact, it's their biggest fundraiser of the year.  It debuted in 2022 and took place at scenic Riverfront Park in North Charleston, with Celebrity Dog Trainer and Animal Planet Star Travis Brorsen & Friends.  2023's event was wildly successful and featured @AGuyAndAGolden Instagram stars Johnathan Lower and his adorable Golden Retriever, Teddy.

2024's event brings back the ever-popular Chili Cookoff, where 26 of the area's best restaurants and chefs will make their best version of chili and try and win the grand prize/bragging rights as Chili Champion.  Attendees get to sample them and vote for their favorites.

Participants can donate to a favorite team, to help the lifesaving work of the Charleston Animal Society.   Participating restaurants include Hall's Chophouse, Home Team BBQ, Anson Restaurant, and NICO's Oysters + Seafood. 

2024's venue is Brittlebank Park on Lockwood Drive in downtown Charleston.  Tickets are just $25 advance ($35 at the gate), and kids 12 and under get in free.

Celebrity Paws in the Park has some great sponsors, including Crews Subaru, Fetch Pet Insurance and Hill's.

Here's more of what's on tap:

• Barkitecture Charleston: Bid now to win doghouses built by local architects! See them in person at the festival.
• Chili Cook-Off: Sample delicious chili from 25 of Charleston’s top restaurants!
• Oyster Roast: Fresh oysters from Pearlz Oyster Bar and served by Reed's Catering.
• Live Music: Enjoy tunes from Midnight City, Lauren Hall, and Vallenato Flavor throughout the day.
• Adoption Zone: The shelter will be closed, but you can still take home your new best friend from Brittlebank Park!
• Barks & Brews: Sip on craft beers from 8 of Charleston’s best local breweries. Get 9 complimentary tastings with the General Admission Plus Ticket!