Mardi Growl 2025

In a howling, growling, group-sniffing beginning to festival season, Mardi Growl paraded from Regas Square down Gay Street to Jackson Ave. and through to the World’s Fair Park. Colors streaming, beads sparkling, and owners proudly presenting their precious canines, the event launches a happy vibe out into the early spring. And who couldn’t use a little happy vibing about now?

After what seemed a particularly cold winter for Knoxville, the sun shined brightly as the 18th annual event, sponsored by Young Williams Animal Center, pranced out onto the street. A marching band led the procession this year, which made me very happy. In years past, the Fulton High School Marching Band led the way, blasting a repetitive, but necessary “When the Saints Go Marching In.” Tradition broken last year, nothing announced the parade but distant yaps. This year’s band, constituted by young players and a flag corps, though nothing indicated who they represented.

The parade stepped off from Regas Square, though the website said it would originate in the Old City. In recent years, that was the case, and as that little sliver of Knoxville looks more like New Orleans than any other, it seemed appropriate. I’m not sure why the change, but it had people scurrying a bit. Honestly, I miss the parade route along Gay Street and I think there are fewer spectators because of the change.

Perhaps it’s all about the fact that Market Square no longer works for festivals and the walk down Gay and over to the World’s Fair Park would be a long one for the animals that had to walk (many are carried or ride in floats). And to support that, I’ll submit that downtown was swamped this weekend, starting on Friday night. So, maybe it’s for the best and it’s a small quibble in any case.

A good event it was and special props to all the many people who dress up for the revelry and adapt small floats for their puppy friends. I always appreciate the people who put that little langniappe out there for others to enjoy.

The festivities continued on the World’s Fair Park where “nearly 100” venders offer everything canine and services, such as spaying and neutering can be had on the spot. It all raises money for Young-Williams and their efforts to take in animals and find them new homes. The center works with more than 11,000 pets each year.

I’m highlighting my favorites here, along with a couple from Urban Boy, who was my running buddy for this year’s event. He’s got the cool Apple phone for the first time and can take his own photos now, thank you very much. Look below and you’ll see the treasure trove and maybe spot yourself, a friend, or a pooch near and dear to you!