We get a lot of questions each year, we’ll try to compile the answers here for your reference.
What’s the purpose of PugFest? PugFest is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our mission includes educating about the importance of dog rescue and supporting Pug Rescue organizations across the country. Profits from the event and donations made by our kind donors support participating Pug Rescue organizations.
When is PugFest? Planned dates for 2025 are June 7-8.
What are the event hours? 9am-5pm eastern standard time on Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sunday.
What’s the weather like in May/June in Louisville? Averages are 73°F to 80°F, rarely falling below 62°F or exceeding 88°F.
Who can come? This is a family-friendly event, all ages of kind people are welcome (grumpy folks not admitted)!
How big is PugFest? PugFest is currently in a space that’s about 40,000 square feet. Thousands of people attend from all over the world and there are too many Pugs to count!
Can I only bring my dog if it’s a Pug? All socialized and friendly dogs are welcome. The great majority of dogs present will be Pugs, but we love all dogs.
Can my dog wear a costume? Yes, it’s great fun! We even have a costume contest if you want to make it official!
How much does it cost? Tickets are $8 for adults, Kids 2-12 are free.
Is there food at the event? Yes, the Exposition Center opens a food window for us in our event wing. If other events are occurring on the grounds at the same time, other food venues may be available in other sections of the Exposition Center.
How do I register for a contest at the event? Contest registration begins when the doors open. We have limited spaces available for contestants, so we urge you to register as early as possible. Our contests “sell out” quickly. Contest registration is $3.00 per contest.
How do I register for the PugFest King/Queen Contest? The PugFest King and Queen (Prince and Princess, Duke and Duchess) Contest entries are accepted from March 1-March 31. Voting occurs from April 1 – April 30. Winner is announced on May 1. The crowning and parade of the Royal Court occurs at the event on Saturday and Sunday morning.
How often does PugFest happen? Pugfest occurs in May or June each year. It’s a two day event.
Does Bluegrass PugFest take place in other cities? No, the official Bluegrass PugFest only takes place in Louisville, KY.
Can I bring an RV? Yes, the Kentucky Exposition Center has accommodations available for RV parking on-premises. Head to https://kyexpo.org/rv-reservation-request-form/ for more details.
Are Pugs available for sale/adoption at PugFest? The sale of Pugs is prohibited at PugFest as a part of our mission is to encourage adoption. Pug Rescue organizations from across the country participate in PugFest. While each rescue may have Pugs available for adoption, because of travel and an application process, actual Pugs for adoption will likely not be available to interact with at PugFest.
I ordered a Pre-Sale T-Shirt, where is it? We begin selling t-shirts early in the year in order to ensure everybody who wants a t-shirt gets one. We can’t place our order until near the event due to the need to ensure we have all sponsor and rescue logos on the shirt. As a result, we often don’t receive the shirts until very close to the event date. We do our best to get the shirts mailed before the event, but it’s possible your shirt won’t arrive until after the event (note that those orders that didn’t include the $7 shipping fee will be available for pickup at the event).
How many vendors participate in PugFest? We usually have over 50 high-quality vendors offering a great variety of dog-related merchandise.
How many Pug Rescue groups participate? Pug Rescue groups come from across the country to participate. We usually have 10 or more participating Pug Rescue groups. Funds raised are distributed to the participating Pug Rescue groups.
What is the “After Pawty”? The Bluegrass PugFest After Pawty is hosted by PG&J’s Dog Park and Bar at 800 Baxter Avenue in Louisville, Kentucky. The event takes place on the Saturday evening of the event from 6pm-9pm and is a gathering of Pugs and people! Dogs must be pre-registered at pgjdogbar.com . The After Pawty is a great way to let your Pug enjoy the cool evening air, sit back, relax, and enjoy the company of other Pug lovers. Activities vary from year to year.