Pup Parade: Northeast Minneapolis will go to the dogs this Friday

Above, proud dog moms and dog dads parade their pups during last year's event.

Northeast Minneapolis, long known as a hub for hipsters, artists and creative types of all stripes, would like to add another cultural subgroup to its resume of residents: dog lovers. The neighborhood is a welcoming enclave for dog owners and dog-friendly businesses - and this facet of the community will be put on display this Friday, July 30, with the fourth annual Northeast Dog Parade.

The festivities start at 5 p.m., when you and your  pooch (owners are encouraged to dress their dogs up in fun costumes or outfits) can picnic in Chute Square. At 6:15 p.m., the Minneapolis Police Department will escort the parade from Chute Square through the Northeast Business District to a final destination near the Red Stag Supperclub. But don't disperse quite yet: There's a special "Dogtail" happy hour and flea market where you can socialize and shop with fellow dog lovers.

Bone Adventure's Brian Fulmer passes out some neighborhood-branded goodies.

Northeast's growing core of dog-friendly and pet-related businesses started the parade four years ago, says Brian Fulmer, owner of one such business-Bone Adventure pet boutique. He adds that last year's parade drew more than 300 dogs, and with the way Northeast's dog population is growing, organizers are anticipating more than 500 dogs this year.

But you don't have to be a Northeaster to join in the fun. Dog owners from all neighborhoods are welcome.

And while you're there, stop by the Red Stag parking lot where Sarah Beth Photography will be snapping some photos, then hop over to Bone Adventure to get a last look at her "Style Hounds" display before it closes.