MEDIA CONTACT:
Michael Graham, Executive Director
mgraham@havenforanimals.org
251-929-2494
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mystic Mutts of Revelry Returns with “Paws of Oz – A Wicked Good
Time” to Benefit The Haven No-Kill Animal Shelter
Fairhope, AL–January 25, 2026— The streets of downtown Fairhope will once again fill with festive furry friends as The Haven No-Kill Animal Shelter presents the Annual Mystic Mutts of Revelry (MMOR) a walking dog parade on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. This year’s theme, “Paws of Oz–A Wicked Good Time,” invites animal lovers to don their best Oz and Wicked inspired costumes as they parade with their pets through downtown Fairhope. The MMOR parade begins at Fairhoper’s Community Park and registration and sponsorship directly benefits The Haven for Animals.
The 2026 parade will be emceed by the beloved Chick-fil-A® Cow, bringing extra fun, laughs, and photo opportunities to this family-friendly Mardi Gras tradition.
Mystic Mutts of Revelry is proud to recognize McSharry’s Irish Pub who joined us once again as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2026 parade. Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels for businesses and organizations who want to join in the fun while supporting The Haven’s life-saving work.
“Mystic Mutts of Revelry is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Michael Graham, Executive Director of The Haven No-Kill Animal Shelter. “It’s a chance for our community to celebrate Mardi Gras in a uniquely Fairhope way—by putting our pets front and center—while raising critical funds for homeless cats and dogs. The support we receive from this event helps provide medical care, safe shelter, and second chances for hundreds of animals each year. Every registration and sponsorship truly helps save lives. ”Participants are encouraged to dress themselves and their dogs in Oz/Wicked-themed costumes—think Emerald City glam, yellow brick road flair, and lots of purple, green, and gold. Mystic Mutts is a walking dog parade that rolls ahead of the Knights of Ecor Rouge (KOER) parade in downtown Fairhope.
Event Details
• What: Annual Mystic Mutts of Revelry–Paws of Oz: A Wicked Good Time
• When: Saturday, February 7, 2026 | Parade rolls at 3:00 p.m.
• Where: Fairhoper’s Community Park (corner of S. Church Street & Morphy Avenue, downtown Fairhope)
• Who Benefits: The Haven No-Kill Animal Shelter
Registration Information
Registration for Mystic Mutts of Revelry is now open at www.mysticmutts.org
• Adult Human Registration (ages 12+) is $35 and includes parade participation for one adult and one dog.
• Child Human Registration (ages 2–12) is $10 and available as an add- on and must accompany a registered adult. Children may not walk dogs in the parade.
• Event T-Shirts are available for purchase for $25 each.
For questions about registration, please contact Shannon Hesse Smart, MMOR
Chairwoman at 205-305-7200 or mybaldwinagent@gmail.com.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship offers your business valuable exposure to thousands of local animal lovers while directly supporting this mission. Last year, we welcomed over 450 humans and 350 pets as they strutted their stuff in front of more than 15,000 engaged spectators. Remaining sponsorship levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum) include benefits such as:
• Recognition on MMOR promotional materials and event signage
• Mentions on MMOR social media and/or The Haven’s communications
• Complimentary parade passes for staff, customers, or family
• Opportunities for on-site visibility during the parade
To learn more or secure a sponsorship please click here or contact Kim Stewart at 251-
929-7402 or eventsponsors@havenforanimals.org.
“We’re incredibly grateful to McSharry’s Irish Pub and all of our sponsors, volunteers, and participants who make Mystic Mutts of Revelry possible,” Graham added. “Whether you join us as a sponsor, register to walk in the parade, or simply come out to cheer, you are helping The Haven continue its mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome pets in need.”
About The Haven for Animals
Founded in 2000, The Haven is Baldwin County’s first no-kill animal shelter and rescue organization. For more than 25 years, The Haven has led the community in ending pet homelessness through innovative programs, strong partnerships, and compassionate care. By providing shelter, medical treatment, and advocacy, The Haven works collaboratively with local municipalities, rescue groups, and supporters to give abandoned and homeless pets a second chance at life. Learn more at www.havenforanimals.org.