Winter WagFest 2025: Paws for a Cause
Festive Fun Throughout December Will Benefit Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's (CHOP) Facility Dog Program & Child Life Department
This December, BARK U is bringing the magic of the season to life with the return of Winter Wagfest: Paws for a Cause, a nearly four-week long celebration filled with games, giveaways, themed photoshoots, and heartwarming opportunities to support Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s (CHOP) Facility Dog Program and Child Life, Education and Creative Arts Therapy Department. Running December 2 through December 22, 2025, Winter Wagfest invites the BARK U community to come together and support Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
From snow foam parties to themed photos and plushie adoptables, every paw-shake and playful moment will help make a difference for patients receiving care at CHOP. Here’s what’s in store:
Week 1: Paws and Be Thankful, Dec. 2–5
The festivities begin with a winter wonderland in the BARK U lobby, complete with the return of the BARK U Giving Tree, where folks may select a gift to donate to CHOP’s Child Life, Education and Creative Arts Therapy Department. Plus, families and children will be able to ‘adopt’ their very own pup to take home for the holidays!
WEEK 2: Santa Paws & The Mensch of Merriment, Dec. 8-12
Capture holiday memories with Christmas and Hanukka photos along with the introduction of the Winter Wonderland Raffles. Families can participate in the Happy Howl-idays Card Station, decorating cards on behalf of their pups for Santa Paws to read.
WEEK 3: Snow Much Fun, Dec. 15–19
The season gets even more playful with snow foam parties, Olaf meet-and-greets, Olaf photoshoot opportunity and prize-packed games.
WEEK 4: Wags for a Cause, Thanks to You, Dec. 22–23
The grand finale celebrates the generosity of the BARK U community. Guests can enjoy sweet giveaways, treats, and the excitement of raffle winner announcements. On December 23, BARK U will reveal the fundraising totals, the winners of the raffles, and deliver all our goodies to CHOP, wrapping up a celebration of wagging tails, warm hearts, and community spirit.
We are barking with excitement and gratitude for this special event, and can’t wait to see you there!