Events

The VHS holds several special events throughout the year to raise funds for our lifesaving programs and to maintain a presence in the community.

Going, Going, Gone to the Dogs! Benefit Dinner & Auction

The annual auction is the VHS’ largest fundraiser. This splendid evening features a preview cocktail party, a plated dinner, and both silent and live auctions with hundreds of items ranging from $25 up to $5,000+. Nearly 300 people attend to raise revenue for the 11,000+ pets and people that the VHS serves every year!

Save the date:

Saturday, May 20, 2023
5:30 pm 
Old National Events Plaza Ballroom

How can you get involved with the auction?

Donate Auction Items    Buy Tickets  Can't Attend? Donate Funds!

West Side Nut Club Fall Festival

Monday-Saturday, October 2-7, 2023
Booth Hours: 10 am - 10 pm
Booth #75 near St. Joe & Franklin

The fun on Franklin Street is one of VHS’ largest fundraisers. Be sure to stop by booth #75 near St. Joe Avenue at the west end of the festival. Our tried & true vegetarian menu is one of the most popular on the street, including:

  • Hand-battered Fried Green Tomatoes
  • Fried Green Beans
  • Fried Macaroni & Cheese
  • Hand-squeezed Lemon Shake-Ups
  • Hand-squeezed LemOrange Shake-Ups

We are always in need of dependable, able-bodied volunteers age 16 or older in our Fall Festival booth. The Fall Festival is perfect for corporate volunteer groups! Email us to inquire about signing up for 2023. 

Proceeds from the Fall Festival booth benefit the mission of the Vanderburgh Humane Society!

We are also the official West Side Nut Club Pet Parade partner! The Pet Parade is 100% FREE to participate in. Dress up your kids, pets, and even yourself, and show up at St. Boniface Church on the Saturday of the Festival. After 9:00 judging, the parade begins at 10:00.


Pet Pictures with Santa

2023 Dates:

  • Saturday, November 4 from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
  • Sunday, November 5 from 11:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Location: Washington Square Mall Food Court

Don’t miss a Tri-State Christmas tradition! The VHS is host to the longest-running Pet Pictures with Santa event in the Tri-State, celebrating 37 years in 2023. Mr. Claus himself makes the trip to Washington Square Mall from the North Pole during the first full weekend in November each year. This allows families to get their photos back in plenty of time for family Christmas cards!

Photos are $30 and include two poses with digital images for your use. Costumes and accessories are encouraged, and accessories for pets are provided free of charge! Children, adults, and all species of pets are welcome in photos! (Really -- all pets! We have had potbellied pigs, miniature horses, rats, rabbits, a hedgehog, guinea pigs, a Sphinx cat, and more come to visit Santa!)

Proceeds benefit the mission of the Vanderburgh Humane Society!

Cuddlegrams

February 14th, 2023

Cuddlegrams is the VHS' annual Valentine's Day fundraiser! For $100, your valentine will receive 3 roses, a personalized card, chocolates, and a 30-minute cuddle session with your choice of a puppy, kitten or rabbit. A VHS volunteer will deliver the Cuddlegram to your loved one's workplace or other public space in Evansville or Newburgh on February 14th (or the closest weekday to it.)

Order a 2023 Cuddlegram

For questions, please contact Mackenzee McKittrick, Events Coordinator.  

This event is proudly sponsored by Pet Supplies Plus for 2023!

Hairy Pawter Howlidays

Date TBD (fall 2023)


Each year the Vanderburgh Humane Society is transformed into Pawgwarts for a themed adoption event! Many VHS shelter animals will be Sorted into houses based on their personalities to help you find the perfect match! This is a come-and-go type event with FREE ADMISSION for ALL AGES!

Purchase a $10 tennis ball for the Fluffy 2K Fetch for your chance to win $500! One of our "three-headed" shelter dogs will fetch the winning ball. Get yours in advance or at the door, but don't wait -- they may sell out! 

Enjoy themed vendors & activities such as:

  • Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library activity (free!)
  • Live snakes & education at "Slitherin' House" (free!)
  • ($) Themed refreshments including cold butterbeer and treats from the Hogwarts Express trolley ($)
  • ($) Face painting
  • ($) Adopt Your Plush Hogwarts Pet station ($10 to participate) 
  • ($) Scavenger Hunt ($10 to participate)

Get Sorted when you arrive and make a monetary donation to help your House win the House Cup!

Potter-themed costumes/cosplay for pets & people are highly encouraged!

Crossover VHS-HP shirts will be available for purchase!

Shop "Diagon Alley" at the Happy Tails Resale Shop!