With the official end of the LanierWorld Summer Season on Sunday, October 1, Lanier Islands has one more (dog) trick up its sleeve. The following weekend, the lakeside resort is preparing to open its gates to a guest list of a very different sort – the four-legged variety. On Saturday, October 7, Lanier Islands will play host to event that promises to be “off the leash” with the premiere of Bark in the Waterpark. Held from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Bark in the Waterpark will feature dog agility demonstrations by the renowned Dock Dogs®, “Dog and Disc” frisbee retrieval competition, live music, street performers, dog-themed activities, pet-related vendors, lake access, beach games, carnival rides, bounce houses, splashtacular fun zones, dog costume contest and so much more. Of course, the best part about this event is that it’s FREE.With the official end of the LanierWorld Summer Season on Sunday, October 1, Lanier Islands has one more (dog) trick up its sleeve. The following weekend, the lakeside resort is preparing to open its gates to a guest list of a very different sort – the four-legged variety. On Saturday, October 7, Lanier Islands will play host to event that promises to be “off the leash” with the premiere of Bark in the Waterpark. Held from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Bark in the Waterpark will feature dog agility demonstrations by the renowned Dock Dogs®, “Dog and Disc” frisbee retrieval competition, live music, street performers, dog-themed activities, pet-related vendors, lake access, beach games, carnival rides, bounce houses, splashtacular fun zones, dog costume contest and so much more. Of course, the best part about this event is that it’s FREE.
“Lake people and dog lovers often tend to be one in the same,” explained Mike Williams, CEO of Lanier Islands. “Our entire staff of Lanier Islands is made up of animal lovers, which is why we opted to become a pet-friendly resort in 2014. We have specially designated rooms in Legacy Lodge and our LakeHouses where are guests can enjoy an overnight stay at the resort with their family pet. You’ll often see guests out jogging the trails throughout the Islands with their dog on a leash. Of course, the one place that’s never been open to pets is the beach and waterpark at LanierWorld – until now. It’s going to be a really fun day – not just for our guests and their pets, but also for our staff.”
At the heart of Bark in the Waterpark will be performances by Dock Dogs® – from ESPN, the Outdoor Channel and ABC fame. Between noon and 5 p.m., Dock Dogs® will bring teams of dogs and their handlers to the Islands to compete in jumping, running and retrieving. The dogs that go the farthest, longest and fastest get grand prizes, while the handlers get bragging rights.
Bark in the Waterpark Schedule:
11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
LanierWorld gates and FunZone open; Live Music and Entertainment throughout the day
Noon – 5 p.m.
Dock Dogs® Competition
2 p.m.
Dog & Disc traditional frisbee retrieval competition kicks off
“We’ve already got a great team lined up, but there’s still time to hop on board – we’re big believers in ‘the more, the merrier’ at Lanier Islands,” said Missy Burgess, Director of Public Relations and Sponsorships for Lanier Islands. “We’re currently accepting queries from pet-focused vendors and animal-related nonprofits. If you’re interested, email me at mburgess@lanierislands.com.”
For guests who wish to turn their dogtastic day into a dogtastic stay, they can request a pet-friendly room at the resort. To make reservations or learn more about Bark in the Waterpark and other upcoming events at Lanier Islands, interested parties are encouraged to visit www.lanierislands.com or call 770-945-8787.
*This is a ‘Rain or Shine’ event that will go on regardless of weather conditions. Specific play areas will be available for pets.
**A $15 per car fee is applicable for the front gate / parking.
***Some activities require additional fees.
