TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – The fifth annual Tucson Subaru Pets of Pima Parade is set to take place on Sunday. The event, organized by Friends of Pima Animal Care Center (FOP) and the Fourth Avenue Merchants Foundation, aims to raise funds for Pima Animal Care Center’s lifesaving initiatives.
The parade will kick off on March 8 at 10 a.m. on East 6th Street near Tucson Magnet High School, and conclude downtown at Corbett’s Tucson on North 6th Avenue. This year marks the first time the parade will feature a theme, “Wizard of Paws, There’s no place like home,” celebrating five years of success.
Torre Chisholm, the director of Friends of PACC, highlighted the event’s family-friendly nature.
“With over 1,000 adorable pets, many in costume, the parade is good for endless smiles and a million tail wags — all in support of homeless and vulnerable pets. Come join us on the yellow brick road,” Chisholm said.
This year’s event promises to be the largest yet, featuring floats, music, costumes, and shopping. The Friends of PACC Festival, running alongside the parade, has fully booked vendor spots, marking its largest turnout.
Funds raised will support PACC’s free medical outreach events, lifesaving surgeries and personalized pet tags for Pima County pet owners.
“Come out and help us celebrate our pets and celebrate the great work our community partner Friends of PACC is doing,” Steve Kozachik, director of PACC, said. “The event is fun, upbeat, family-friendly and a great opportunity to just be outdoors and have a good time with friends, neighbors and other community members. With all the serious stuff going on, treat yourself to this fun couple of hours.”
The Tucson High School Animal Rescue Group is offering $7 parking off of 8th Street and 1st Avenue, and at Roskruge K8 Magnet School, with proceeds benefiting Friends of PACC. Sun Link will allow leashed pets on board for the day.
For those unable to attend, the parade will be rebroadcast on KMSB FOX11 on March 15 at 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., and March 22 from 4 to 5 p.m. KTTU CW18 will also rebroadcast the parade on March 14 from 10 to 11 a.m., and on March 21 from 10 to 11 a.m. More details and the parade map are available online.
PACC will open later on March 8, from noon to 4:30 p.m., to accommodate staff participation in the parade.
