Lewes Winter Fest Barkfest Pet Pageant judges named

The Lewes Winter Fest Barkfest Pet Pageant, sponsored by the Lewes Chamber of Commerce, takes place Saturday, Feb. 15 at 2 p.m. The event committee, chaired by Lesley Bowers, owner of P.U.P.S. on Second Street, has named the three judges for this year’s pageant: Lisa Sanderson, representing Comcast Spotlight, the event’s media sponsor for all eight years of the festival; Teresa Ford, owner of Kids’ Ketch on Second Street, representing the chamber’s Historic Lewes Business Committee; and Joanne Murphy, representing Delaware SPCA, the event beneficiary.

The Pet Pageant is staged next to Citizens Bank at the corner of Second Street and “Bark” Street (Bank Street temporarily renamed for the event) where pets of all sizes and shapes, ages and genders strut their stuff in front of the judges and the crowds.

The four categories of competition are Formal Wear, Leisure Wear, Companion Look Alike and Kids Freestyle, open only to children. Advance registration takes place at P.U.P.S. (Pawsitively Unique Pet Shop) at 117 Second St..

Register the day of the event in front of Citizens Bank from noon to 1:30 p.m. The registration entry donation is $5 and benefits the Delaware SPCA. All contestants must be on-site no later than 1:30 p.m. to receive their entry numbers. Contestants will line up with their owners at 1:45 p.m. behind Citizens Bank. The judges will award three prizes in each of four categories.

This year, very special shelter dogs will be at the event to show their unconditional love and to look for their forever homes.

The Pet Pageant is one aspect of the 8th Annual Lewes Winter Fest Barkfest event that takes place in the historic commercial district surrounding Second Street and across the canal at Irish Eyes Pub & Restaurant during Valentine’s Day weekend. The event gives Valentine’s Day shoppers and diners additional activities in which to participate and attend. It has become more “dog-centric” in the past few years.

Three years ago, another event was added on Friday evening - a Yappy Hour for Pets and People who like to Yap. During the two-day Winter Fest event, numerous retail businesses and restaurants will be offering Valentine holiday-themed specials including discounts on specific items.

For more information about the event, contact the chamber at 302-645-8073.