TO: Development Services Management Group
FROM: Allie Behrman, CPRP, Special Events Manager
THROUGH: Terrence R. Moore, ICMA-CM
DATE: September 24, 2026
Title
DELRAY IS GOING TO THE DOGS: APPROVAL OF THE NON-IMPACT EVENT KNOWN AS "DELRAY IS GOING TO THE DOGS" TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 15, 2026, AT THE OLD SCHOOL SQUARE AMPHITHEATER
AND FRONT LAWN; AND TO AUTHORIZE THE SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER TO TAKE ALL ACTIONS NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THE SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT
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Recommended Action:
Recommendation
Special Events Technical Advisory Committee (SETAC) recommends the Development Services Management Group (DSMG) approve the special event known as Delray is Going To The Dogs to be held on November 15, 2026; and authorize the Special Event Manager (SEM) to take all actions necessary to effectuate the Special Event Permit.
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Background:
Pets' Broward submitted a Special Event Application on July 27, 2026, for the event Delray is Going To The Dogs to be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at the Old School Square. This event has happened for the past six years. The event will include animals for adoption, food trucks, live music, a doggie lure and merchandise vendors. The event is meant to bring the community together over the love for dogs. All proceeds from the event will be used to benefit pets in need in South Florida. The event will take place from 12:00pm - 4:00pm. The expected attendance is around 500 people and pets. The request for an event with animals has already been approved by the Parks and Recreation Director.
This event had one issue at the 2023 event not with a rescue dog but with a dog that was brought by it's owner. The dog bit a juvenile. The incident was reported to Delray Beach PD and animal control. The juvenile was treated by Delray Beach EMS.
This is not on consent agenda because, while SETAC recommended the event for approval, they believe a discussion needs to be had about the rescue animals on site for the event and guidelines for having them.
Special Events Technical Advisory Committee (SETAC) Review:
SETAC reviewed and recommended approval of the event.
No special conditions beyond the standard permits were recommended by SETAC.
Funding Source/Financial Impact:
Pets" Broward is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and will receive a 50% discount in soft costs.
Timing of Request:
The event is quickly approaching and the producer would like to begin advertising.