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Do Dah Day

Get ready to let loose and have a blast at Do Dah Day - the biggest and most colorful festival of the year! Music, food, and fun await you.

Friday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 14

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYPets

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready for a day filled with fun, music, and furry friends on Do Dah Day! This beloved celebration takes place on the first Saturday of May in Birmingham, Alabama and has been a tradition since 1979. It began as a small parade to raise money for local animal shelters but has now grown into a huge festival with live music, food trucks, and a variety of activities for all ages. Whether you're an animal lover or just looking for a good time, Do Dah Day is the perfect event to kick off your summer festivities. So mark your calendars for this paws-itively amazing day!

TIMELINE

Do Dah Day Timeline

Do Dah Day Inception

Do Dah Day was born as a whimsical neighborhood parade intended to raise funds for animal charities in Birmingham, Alabama.

Expansion of Celebration

The event expanded to include live music, turning it into a full-day festival and attracting a broader audience.

First Official Miss Do Dah Day

The first official Miss Do Dah Day was crowned, adding a unique, festive competition to the event.

New Event Features

Food trucks and market stalls were introduced, enhancing the gastronomic experience for festival-goers.

Break Fundraising Record

A record amount of over $150,000 USD was raised, reflecting the growing support for the cause and popularity of the festival.

Virtual Celebration

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Do Dah Day ventured online for a virtual celebration, proving its resilience as a much-loved community tradition.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Do Dah Day

Dress up your pet for a parade

Do Dah Day is all about celebrating pets, so why not dress up your furry friend and join in on the pet parade? Get creative with costumes and have fun showing off your pet's personality.

ATTEND

Attend a live concert

Do Dah Day features live music performances throughout the day, so make sure to check out the lineup and attend a concert or two. It's a great way to relax and enjoy some good tunes.

TRY

Try new food at the food truck rally

Do Dah Day also has a food truck rally where you can sample delicious food from different vendors. Take this opportunity to try something new and support local businesses.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a pet costume contest

Put your pet's costume to the test by entering them in a pet costume contest. Who knows, they may just win a prize for their adorable outfit.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local animal shelter

In the spirit of Do Dah Day, consider volunteering at a local animal shelter. You can help take care of animals in need and spread some love and joy on this special day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Do Dah Day

Fun activities for everyone

During Do Dah Day, there are various fun activities and events planned for both humans and animals alike. From costume contests, to pet parades and live music performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, who doesn't love seeing cute dogs dressed up in silly outfits?

It's a day for our furry friends

Do Dah Day is all about celebrating and supporting the local animals in your community. From pet adoption events, to fundraisers for animal shelters, this holiday focuses on giving back to our beloved pets and raising awareness for their care and well-being.

It brings people together

Do Dah Day is an annual event that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together to celebrate their love for animals. It's a great opportunity to meet new friends and bond over a shared passion, while also supporting a good cause.

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