A giant inflatable dog greeted us at the corner entrance to Lake Eola Park, calling passerby's and making for an excellent photo opportunity. The park was lined with tents from the various rescue organizations, leaving plenty of room for dog and child alike to run and play in the open areas while other dog owners proudly walked around displaying their faithful pets.
Along with the rescues, in attendance were also small businesses that offered a variety of products, treats and training in the dog and pet industry. This year, all food was provided by food trucks, which offered an excellent selection of gourmet food. We sampled the Gyro's and Mediteranian fare at Louise's Bistro Truck and were amazed at the flavor and fresh ingredients served from a mobile kitchen.
Tucked neatly in line with the other food trucks was a new and interesting concept that we had never heard of. A bit smaller than the other food trucks, an ironically made out of an old jeep mail-truck, was Gourmet Mutt Truck's Sit and Stay cafe. Their menu boasts delicious sounding organic treats made especially for demanding canine connoisseur. From the Cafe style chalkboard menu to the organic wrappers used to distribute the treats in, this company has started 'green' and chic.
The well organized Barktoberfest event was lead by DJ's who would announce the count of dogs rescued throughout the day as well as lead families and dogs through dancing and other fun. One of the events involved doggy 'musical hoops.' Owners of well behaved, and not so behaved, pooches lead them around the hoops, last one left out when the music stops is eliminated. This was very fun to watch, though one accident inside a hoola hoop did cause a slight delay and a disqualification!
If you live in the Orlando area and you love dogs, than put Barktoberfest on your 'must do' calendar for next year. The children were having so much fun in the bounce house, our only recommendation is a bounce house for the dogs next year!Between the dogs, family fun and great food, this event is a winner
