North Aurora’s Riverfront Park transformed on Saturday morning with delightful four-legged guests taking center stage. The village hosted its second Dog Days of Summer event, highlighting a pet parade and a pet-themed vendor market.

Katrina Keilty and her Wooly Siberian Husky named Duncan shared their enthusiasm for viewing the park along the Fox River from a fresh perspective. “We’re participating in the ‘most unique’ category because Duncan’s long fur and two different eye colors make him stand out,” Keilty expressed.

Natalie Stevens, the community relations coordinator for North Aurora, mentioned the parade was once part of North Aurora Days but hadn’t been held for years. “Pets are dear to us, so the village decided to revive this event,” Stevens explained.

The pet parade offered categories like cutest pet, owner-pet dress-alike, biggest and smallest pets, most unusual pet, and best trick. Prizes included trophies and gift cards to pet stores.

Attendees explored vendor stalls selling handmade dog treats, pet clothing, and custom pet portraits. Stevens highlighted the participation of local pet businesses, doggy day care services, pet stores, and dog rescue groups showcasing adoptable dogs.

Despite the smoke from Canadian wildfires affecting attendance, pet owners eagerly participated with their beloved companions. Lore Solano entered her mini-long-haired dachshund, Dolce, into the costume contest. Dolce, with cream-colored fur, caught attention. “She’s dressed as a princess this time,” Solano shared.

Anna Califf of Westchester brought her Chihuahua, Lady Lucy, dressed up for the ‘Best Costume’ category on July 18, 2026, at North Aurora’s Dog Days of Summer festival. Although Lady Lucy frequently wins, choosing a category posed a challenge for Califf.

The event was primarily for dogs, but Laura McCoy pondered bringing her frog and toad. “We contemplated it, but concluded they might not enjoy it,” McCoy said, who attended with her rescue dog, Caramel.