19th Annual Riverwalk Mutts and Martinis™ Returns to Esplanade Park with dog-friendly fun, contests and pet rescues this Saturday, March 21

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (March 19, 2026) Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale invites dog lovers and their four-legged companions to the 19th Annual Riverwalk Mutts & Martinis™, taking place Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Esplanade Park (400 SW 2nd Street) along the scenic New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

This beloved tradition fosters community connection in the Riverwalk District by bringing our four-legged residents and their human companions together with local businesses and rescues. Guests can enjoy canine-themed vendors and entertainment at this free, family-friendly event, whether attending with their well-behaved pups or simply joining in the festivities.

Our entertainment schedule will be as follows:

3:30 – Peanut Butter Eating Contest – Dogs will be competing in heats with other dogs of similar size, and should gather by the stage early to be grouped.

4:00 – Doggie Fashion Show – Awards will be handed out for: Congeniality, Doggie Look-alike, Fashionista, Most Photogenic, and Best Overall.

To sign up for these events email Events@GoRiverwalk.com or look for the Riverwalk Tent on Saturday in the northeast corner of the park to sign up in-person.

In addition to the entertainment, the event places a strong focus on pet rescue and adoption, with local shelters and rescue organizations on site connecting dogs in need with loving homes. The afternoon provides an opportunity for the community to meet adoptable pets and learn more about the organizations dedicated to helping them.

Rescues participating this year include:

·        We Care More Animal Rescue
·        UFAR Animals Rescue
·        Humane Society of Broward County
·        Abandoned Pet Rescue
·        Everglades Angels Dog Rescue
·        Good Karma Pet Rescue
·        Suncoast Basset Rescue

Raffle items donated by our generous sponsors and vendors will be on display at the Riverwalk tent, where tickets can be purchased.

Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale is able to offer free admission events and community programming in part through the support of its sponsors.

The 19th Annual Riverwalk Mutts & Martinis™ is sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka/Vodka for Dog People, Blakeley Law Firm, P.A. – Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyers, Morningstar Storage, S. Mark Graphics and Go Riverwalk Magazine.

For more information, visit www.GoRiverwalk.com/Mutts or email Events@GoRiverwalk.com.