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“I blackmail people now! You gotta show up [for the pet parade] – or you don’t come into my shop!” joked Gina McCarthy, owner of Enchanted Locks and volunteer coordinator for the La Conner Chamber of Commerce’s third annual Daffodil Pet Parade scheduled for Saturday, March 9.

“This is the Daffodil Festival – but each year nothing happens – so this year we are having this [the pet parade,] then the firemen’s ball and then the Murder Mystery event – all part of the festival,” said McCarthy.

“It’s the perfect opportunity to get the community together, show off our pets and get kids involved,” Chamber of Commerce Director Mark Hulst said. Several boys and girls from La Conner’s schools will be volunteering.

Last year all 50 registration slots were filled – considerably more than the first year. The goal is for more in 2024.

So, get your dolled-up pets to the south end of the La Conner Marina parking lot by 10 a.m. Saturday. The parade begins at 11 a.m., starting at the Marina, and heads up First Street to Maple Hall, then turns around – dogs yapping, spectators clapping, proud owners beaming – back to Gilkey Square for the Red-Carpet Costume contest complete with judging and photographs.

Prizes will be given for best dressed, the funniest and the happiest. All pets are welcome. Last year a hen and a rabbit paraded in addition to the dogs.

La Conner school kids will make a calendar for next year from photographs they will take.

Festivities will include a pet trivia game with audience participation. The Vintage La Conner Thrift Store has donated jewelry for the winner.

Beware! Stiff competition will be had from the Retirement Inn. They love their pets and want to show them off. And while you’re at it, “Dress to impress – the more fun, the better,” said McCarthy.

If your beloved pet is in pet heaven, stop by Enchanted Locks and drop off a photo of your beloved pet to be displayed on a poster at the festival.

Donations will be accepted by SPOT, the Burlington animal rescue and placement adoption service, at Gilkey Square. Photos will be displayed of pets available for adoption as well.

Information: La Conner Chamber, 360-466-4778.