Arch Foundation Celebrates National Pet Day Weekend with Annual Arch Bark
Dog lovers are invited to join the Gateway Arch Park Foundation and Purina at Gateway Arch National Park on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free, family-friendly event celebrates the bond between pets and their owners with a group dog walk, fun activities, entertainment, and enjoying stunning views and iconic surroundings of Gateway Arch National Park, while promoting responsible pet ownership through the National Park Service's B.A.R.K. Ranger program.
“Gateway Arch Park Foundation believes the Arch is for everyone, including our canine friends,” said Ryan McClure, Executive Director. "As stewards of this iconic landmark, events like Arch Bark exemplify our commitment to creating inclusive, vibrant spaces at Gateway Arch National Park. By partnering with Purina and local vendors, we're not only breathing life into our mission to make the Gateway Arch a welcoming destination for everyone but also supporting our local economy and showcasing St. Louis's vibrant community spirit."
Arch Bark lineup of activities for dogs and their humans
Event Opens
10 a.m. — Vendor booths open and walk-up registration begins for the Purina Paws on Pavement 1-Mile Walk. Pre-register for the walk online at archpark.org/archbark.
Purina Paws on Pavement 1-Mile Walk
10:30 a.m. — Join a scenic group dog walk starting at 10:30 a.m the main Arch Bark stage. Registration is required and free.
First Purina Incredible Dog Team Performance
11 a.m. — Enjoy the fi rst of two thrilling shows, featuring some of the world’s most talented canine athletes performing high-fl ying tricks in agility and flying disc sports. Many of these dogs are rescues, showcasing how proper nutrition and training can help any dog reach its potential.
Dog Fashion Show and Best Trick Contest
Noon — Enter your four-legged fashionistas and talented tricksters to take center stage for a chance to win an exciting prize. The pup who gets the most applause will win a three full-value coupons for a three-month supply of Purina pet food.
Second Purina Incredible Dog Team Performance
12:30 p.m.
Dog Agility Course Opens
1 p.m. — After the last performance wraps, we invite dogs of all skill levels to try out the agility course. Whether your pup is a seasoned agility pro or just giving it a try for the fi rst time, this interactive course is the perfect way to let them burn off some energy and have a little fun.
Throughout the event, guests can play lawn games while listening to a live DJ. Peruse pet-focused vendors, including Caricature STL who will help you commemorate your day with your pup, and enjoy food from local vendors like The Best Wurst Food Truck, Pour Decisions, Wok-O Taco, and The MOObile Smash Burgers & MOOre.
Purina will also have giveaways for you and your canine companion, including complimentary pet treats, travel water bowls, doggie pick-up bags, and reusable totes.
If you love the event, stop by the Gateway Arch Park Foundation tent to learn more about how the nonprofi t conservancy of Gateway Arch National Park makes events like this happen.
"Arch Bark is a perfect opportunity for St. Louisans to celebrate their love of dogs in our hometown national park," added Kim Beardslee, Director of Community Affairs at Nestlé Purina PetCare Company. "We're proud to partner with Gateway Arch Park Foundation to bring people and pets together in downtown St. Louis."
Arch Bark is part of the many pet-friendly events hosted by Gateway Arch Park Foundation and Gateway Arch National Park. For more information on Arch Bark activities or to support the Foundation’s mission, visit archpark.org/archbark.
About Gateway Arch Park Foundation
Gateway Arch Park Foundation is the official philanthropic partner and conservancy for Gateway Arch National Park. Its mission is to ensure the Gateway Arch, its grounds, neighboring public spaces, and attractions are a vital, welcoming, well-supported resource to the community and nation for generations to come. It seeks to fulfi ll its mission by providing for ongoing conservation, preservation and education at the park, in addition to hosting, facilitating and promoting community programs that bring the park and its surrounding areas in Downtown St. Louis to life. The Foundation is part of an alliance that helps meet this mission, which includes the National Park Service, Bi-State Development, Great Rivers Greenway, Jefferson National Parks Association, and the City of St. Louis. For more information, visit archpark.org.
About Nestlé Purina PetCare
Nestlé Purina PetCare creates richer lives for pets and the people who love them. Founded in 1894, Purina has helped dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives by offering scientifi cally based nutritional innovations. Purina manufactures some of the world's most trusted and popular pet care products, including Purina ONE, Pro Plan,
Friskies and Tidy Cats. Our more than 10,000 U.S. associates take pride in our trusted pet food, treat and litter brands that feed 46 million dogs and 68 million cats every year. More than 500 Purina scientists, veterinarians, and pet care experts ensure our commitment to unsurpassed quality and nutrition.
Purina promotes responsible pet care through our scientific research, our products, and our support for pet-related organizations. Over the past five years, Purina has contributed more than $150 million towards organizations that bring, and keep, people and pets together, as well as those that help our communities and environment thrive.
Purina is part of Nestlé, a global leader in Nutrition, Health and Wellness. For more information, visit purina.com or subscribe here to get the latest Purina news.