A Coon Dog is an American English Coonhound, and this breed makes a fantastic pet with plenty of energy, but they also like to lounge around and snuggle with their owners. If you have one of these wonderful dogs, you’ll be happy to know that they have a special holiday usually held on the Saturday following July 4. Keep reading to learn when and where this event happens and how you can participate in the celebration.
What Is Coon Dog Day?
Unlike many other pet holidays, Coon Dog Day is not a national event or recognized holiday. It’s a local event that occurs in Saluda, North Carolina. The Coonhound gets a parade in this city, and the people celebrate with music and food, and they even select a Coon Dog King and Queen. The holiday celebrates the dogs’ hunting prowess and attractive appearance.
When Is Coon Dog Day?
Coon Dog Day occurs in July every year, but the day and week can vary based on the town’s needs. In 2021, it was on Saturday, July 10, and on Saturday, July 9, in 2022. Saluda, North Carolina, maintains a website and posts the date as soon as it’s chosen.1
Coon Dog Day Events
5K Race
One of the first events to kick off each Coon Dog Day is a 5K Race/Walk that starts in front of City Hall at 8 a.m. It takes participants throughout the city and helps raise money. It’s recommended that you pre-register to guarantee your t-shirt, but you can still sign up to run on the event day.
Saluda Parade
After the 5K race, the Saluda Parade is held at 11 a.m., featuring handmade floats, horses, classic cars, fire trucks, decorated tractors, and more. It’s also your chance to see the king, queen, princes, and princesses on the Coon Dog Day Royalty Float. The townspeople select the royalty from local candidates who are all under the age of 18.
Dog Show
Another big part of Coon Dog Day is the dog show, which grades the dogs on their appearance and ability to hunt. There are also fun events where onlookers get to witness their hunting ability firsthand.
Vendors
Things that everyone can enjoy at the Coon Dog Day festival are the many vendors that sell food and beverages. There are also craft vendors selling all types of items.
How Can I Celebrate?
- If you live in western North Carolina near Saluda, it’s worth making the trip for the food and festivities, especially if you are the proud owner of a Coonhound. It’s an extremely popular event, and each year, the small town of about 700 gets more than 10,000 visitors.
- If you can’t make it to Saluda, you can help spread the word about Coon Dog Day by telling people about it on social media. You can also take pictures of your dog and post your stories.
- Spending extra time with your pet is a great way to celebrate Coon Dog Day.
- Adopting a Coonhound from your local animal shelter is one of the best ways to celebrate Coon Dog Day. Doing so also helps free up valuable resources that the shelter can use for other needy animals.
Conclusion
Coon Dog Day is a local event held in Saluda, North Carolina, on a Saturday in July that celebrates our love for the Coonhound and their attractive appearance and hunting skills. Celebrations include a parade, a 5K race, and a dog show. There are also plenty of vendors, and a Coon Dog Day King and Queen are even appointed. Keep an eye on the Saluda website to learn the exact date of the festivities, and visit the town if you can. If you are in another part of the country, you can still participate by spending more time with your Coonhound or adopting one from the local animal shelter.
Featured Image Credit: richard pross, Shutterstock
