LOLLYPOP FARM ANSWERS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AS BARKTOBER FEST DRAW NEARS
FAIRPORT, N.Y. – With Barktober Fest just 30 short days away, Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, is providing answers to several frequently asked questions to ensure that attendees fully enjoy a fun-filled event, highlighted by the community’s largest pet-friendly walk.
- Where will Barktober Fest take place this year?
As Lollypop Farm’s main campus undergoes its exciting transformation into one of the nation’s leading community-based animal welfare and education centers through the Kindness For All Kind campaign, and with attendee safety in mind during ongoing construction, Barktober Fest will be held on Saturday, September 27 at Innovative Field, home of the Rochester Red Wings, located at One Morrie Silver Way, Rochester, N.Y. 14608.
- How Do I Get to Innovative Field and Barktober Fest?
Innovative Field is located at One Morrie Silver Way, Rochester, NY, 14608.
- FROM THE WEST: Take Rt. 490 East to the Broad St./Stadiums Exit #12. After exiting the expressway, you will come to a traffic signal; continue straight on to Allen Street. You will come to a traffic signal; keep left and continue across Broad Street past the Fire Station (follow the Innovative Field signs). As you approach, Innovative Field will be on your right. Parking is located right across from the stadium entrance off of Oak St.
- FROM THE NORTH: Take Route 390 South; exit onto Route 490 East to the Broad St./Stadiums Exit #12. Continue straight on to Allen Street. Continue onto Allen across Broad Street past the Fire Station (follow the Innovative Field signs). As you approach, Innovative Field will be on your right. Parking is located right across from the stadium entrance off Oak St.
- FROM THE EAST: Take Rt. 490 West past the downtown exit to the Broad Street/Plymouth Avenue exit #14; the exit puts you on Washington Street. Continue onto Washington St. to Main St. and turn right. The first traffic signal is Plymouth Avenue; turn left on Plymouth (green “Stadiums-turn left” sign) and continue for approximately 1/3-mile. Innovative Field will be on your left.
- FROM THE SOUTH: Take Rt. 390 North to Rt. 490 East to the Brown/Broad Exit #12. After exiting the expressway, continue straight on Allen Street. Continue onto Allen across Broad Street past the Fire Station (follow the Innovative Field signs). As you approach, Innovative Field will be on your right. Parking is located right across from the stadium entrance off Oak St.
- Where Can I Park?
There is ample parking in the lot (Lot D) directly across from the stadium’s entrance that will be FREE for Barktober Fest.
- Is There a Cost for Admission?
Yes, there is a small $5 entry fee per person. Children 12 years and under are free. T-shirts and merchandise will also be sold on site with all proceeds directly benefiting Lollypop Farm. The event is Lollypop Farm’s second-largest fundraiser of the year, and we depend on proceeds from Barktober Fest to provide resources, services, and care to animals and community members.
- How Do I Purchase Tickets?
Tickets can be purchased leading up to the event by visiting the Barktober Fest website and clicking “Register.” From there, you’ll be prompted to join a team or fundraise individually. Once registered, you’ll be able to purchase your tickets. Admission tickets will also be available for purchase on-site.
- How Does my Fundraising Help Animals in Need?
While not a requirement, the funds you help to raise provide care and services for homeless and abused animals. In 2024 alone, over 4,000 pets found new loving homes, our Humane Law Enforcement officers brought over 400 animals into our care, and our veterinary team performed over 9,000 surgeries to help pets in the shelter and our community.
- Can I Volunteer?
Absolutely! Lollypop Farm is so grateful to the more than 1,000 volunteers who help to make our mission a reality. If you’d like to learn more, contact Karen Stolt at (585) 223-1330 or at kstolt@lollypop.org.
- Is There a Bag Policy or Dress Code?
Proper attire, including shirts, and shoes, must be worn at all times. Cleats, spikes, and high heels are not permitted on the field.
- Fans are permitted one clear bag (not to exceed 16″x16″x8″) and a non-clear bag that is 4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller.
- The following bags are prohibited: backpacks, briefcases, non-transparent or oversized fanny packs, luggage, computer bags/cases, camera bags, and binocular bags.
- Bags that do not meet the criteria will not be granted entry into the ballpark. Fans will be asked to return non-compliant bags to their vehicles.
- Exceptions apply to medical equipment/supply bags and diaper bags. Security will be present at all Innovative Field entrances to allow screening of these bags.
- All bags are subject to security inspection upon entry and at any time within the stadium premises.
- On-site storage facilities at Innovative Field are unavailable.
- Security reserves the right to deny entry to patrons with non-compliant bags or those who refuse inspection.
- Is Barktober Fest a Cashless Event?
Barktober Fest vendors, events, and admission tables will accept most forms of payment, including cash. Food and beverages must be purchased using a credit or debit card.
There will be reverse ATMs on site for those who wish to convert cash into a useable debit card.
- Are Dogs Welcome?
Yes, dogs are welcome! You know your pet best, so think about whether your dog will be comfortable in a festival environment surrounded by other animals and lots of people. If your dog is going to join you, please use a 6-foot or shorter non-retractable leash to prevent dogs from getting tangled. Dogs must remain leashed at all times and must be up to date on all required vaccinations.
- Are Children Able to Attend?
Of course! Barktober Fest is a family-friendly event and people of all ages are welcome.
- Will There be Entertainment?
Barktober Fest is loaded with entertainment, including live music, contests, and so much more. With educational resources, costume contests, silent auction and raffle opportunities, games, and the community’s largest dog-friendly walk, there’s something for everyone. Learn more about the different activities planned by visiting the Barktober Fest website.
For answers to more frequently asked questions or to register, please visit the Barktober Fest website.
About Kindness for All Kind
Construction is underway on Lollypop Farm’s Kindness for All Kind project! Together, we’re building a brighter future for animals and the people who care for them throughout the Greater Rochester area and beyond. This visionary project will create a safe haven for animals in need, offer compassion to those seeking help, and provide unwavering support to the community and caregivers who make second chances possible every day.
Kindness for All Kind will enhance our abilities to care for animals and serve our community. The innovative project includes a new Animal Intake Center, enhanced Dog Holding Facilities, a community-focused Welcome Center, the Karpus Family Foundation Learning Center, expanded farm facilities, a modernized Maintenance Barn, and a Donations and Support Center to meet the growing needs of Lollypop Farm and the community. To learn more about Kindness for All Kind, including how you can support this generational investment in compassion and community, visit lollypop.org/kindness or contact Cathie Wright, Vice President of Donor Relations, at (585) 223-1330 ext. 245 or at wright@lollypop.org.
About Lollypop Farm
Established in 1873, Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2023, is the largest animal welfare organization helping pets and people in the Greater Rochester area. Lollypop Farm is committed to creating a just and compassionate world for all animals. Together with our community, we better the lives of animals through justice, prevention, and life-saving care. With its main campus in Fairport and a satellite adoption center in Greece Ridge Mall, the organization provides shelter, care, and adoption for dogs, cats, small animals, birds, reptiles, horses, and other farm animals. Lollypop Farm is an independent, nonprofit organization supported through donations and program fees. For more information and to meet current animals available for adoption, please visit www.lollypop.org and follow on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
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