The 5^th annual Paws in the Park at Tanglewood was not deterred by the inclement weather. As their banners advertised, “Come rain or moonshine,” festive animal lovers came out to support this favorite event. The occasion combines a first glimpse of the Festival of Lights with furry friends and their families.

“The Tanglewood Festival of Lights has been a keystone holiday event in our community for nearly three decades. To combine this time-honored tradition with the mission and focus of the Humane Society is an honor and a privilege,” noted Connor Groce who is a board member of the Humane Society of Davie County.

The two-day event was held by the Humane Society of Davie County and the Clemmons Rotary Club. The goal is to raise funds to help homeless cats and dogs in the area and the charitable organizations and activities supported by the Rotary Club. Close to 500 ticket holders came out to the event to walk the enchanted light display with their four-pawed family members.

Many local businesses participated as vendors to give an extra element of holiday excitement. Guests were able to stroll through the event to get a jump start on their season shopping list, eat at the various food trucks, and take in the excitement.

“All of the participants were really happy to support us,” mentions Samantha Agner, Humane Society of Davie County board member and sponsor. “It’s such an important event with being our biggest fundraiser of the year to support our mission.”

Former Clemmons Rotary Club member and current Humane Society of Davie County board member, Britt Perkins emphasizes, “A lot of people come out every year. They have a lot of fun while helping us out.” Lauren Canup enjoyed bringing her dog out with her children. “The kids always anticipate this event each year. They like being able to bring the dog out while enjoying the lights. It’s a win-win because we love supporting the animals.”

The Humane Society of Davie County is one of the lowest euthanasia rated shelters in the state at 18 percent. Eighty-six percent of dogs entering are able to be re-homed and saved after being abandoned by previous owners, found as strays, or taken from abuse cases. If you would like to help this 501(c)(3) organization continue its fight to save these animals, you can donate to the Humane Society of Davie County at 291 Eaton Road, Mocksville, N.C., 27028 by mailing in a check.

The Clemmons Rotary Club, also a 501(c)(3) organization, will use its proceeds to help various community projects. In years past, those have included Triad Flight of Honor, Send-a-Kid-to-Camp Hanes, Boy Scouts, Cancer Services, Make-a-Wish, Salvation Army and the Clemmons Food Pantry.

If you missed out on this event, you can bring your furry friend to the Paws for Claus at Old Nick’s Pub in Lewisville on Saturday, Dec. 8, from 4-8 p.m. There will be a raffle with the winner getting a two-night trip to the Biltmore.