DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Mystic Society of Charis will host its first Kid & Pet Parade later this month, marking a new chapter for the organization’s community outreach and fundraising efforts.
Chair Nikki McCord said this is the first year the Mystic Society of Charis is officially hosting the event. The group has also established a nonprofit arm, the Charis Foundation, to support local organizations across the Wiregrass.
The Mystics of Solomon Park Kid & Pet Parade is set for Saturday, Jan. 24, at Solomon Park and will benefit the Wiregrass Humane Society. The family-friendly celebration brings a Mardi Gras flair to Dothan, welcoming children, pets, and community partners for what organizers call “The Cutest Day in Dothan.”
McCord said a parade held last year raised about $3,000. This year, the goal is to raise $20,000 to support the Wiregrass Humane Society and its ongoing work caring for animals in the community.
The community is encouraged to come out and enjoy the parade. Attendees can expect “walking floats,” along with pets dressed in costumes and riding in creatively decorated wagons as they make their way through Solomon Park.
Admission to attend is free. The event will feature food trucks, local vendor booths, and designated fun zones for kids and pets. Registration opens at 11 a.m., with the pet parade beginning at 1 p.m., followed by the kids parade. Pet parade registration is $10, while participation in the kids parade is free. Organizers say on-site registration will be available, and online registration is coming soon.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Wiregrass Humane Society, a no-kill, donation-funded organization that has served the Wiregrass for more than 30 years and helped place thousands of dogs and cats into permanent homes.
