Downtown Lake Orion is going to the dogs.
The annual ‘Dog Days of August? will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout downtown.
On Thursday and Friday, from noon to 4 p.m., and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., many downtown businesses will host sidewalk sales that offer ‘doggone? good deals on a variety of items and services. Some will also offer entertainment.
Residents can get in on the action as they test the old adage that ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.? Located on downtown’s website, www.downtownlakeorion.org, residents can scope out the locations of various garage sales held in the village as part of Dog Days.
The big day of fun for the whole family comes on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Held at the south end of Anderson Street, in the grassy area between the Orion Art Center and the Fire Station, downtown will host a variety of canine inspired events.
Pet-related vendors will be on hand selling their goods, and hot dogs and other snacks will be served.
At 11 a.m., a non-denominational blessing of the dogs will take place, followed by the annual Doggie Parade. Incumbent Doggie Mayor Captain Jack Sparrow will lead the parade, with the help of an antique fire truck, in his last official duty as mayor.
From approximately noon to 2 p.m., a Doggie Talent Show will be held, with awards being given to the largest dog, smallest dog, best trick, best singer and best costume, among others. Winners will receive $50 prizes and/or gift certificates from local business sponsors.
Following the talent show and contests, the new Doggie Mayor will be selected by random drawing from the pre-registered canine candidates. Mayoral registration forms are available online, as well as on-site the day of the event.
For more information about Dog Days of August, the Lake Orion Downtown Development Authority (DDA) can be reached by phone at (248)693-9742 or visited online at their website (where you can also find registration forms for Doggie Mayor candidates), www.downtownlakeorion.org.