The Somerville Foundation for Animals announces the 7th Annual Somerville Dog Festival: DogFest 2016, to be held on Sunday, September 11, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Trum Field, Broadway and Cedar St., Somerville.

Admission is free but donations will be gladly accepted. All well-mannered dogs on leash and current on their vaccinations are invited.

The fundraiser to benefit local animal-related charities will feature a variety of exciting dog demonstrations and multiple “try it” rings in which the public can try sports and games with their dogs to provide fun opportunities for dogs and their people and also help promote responsible dog ownership in our city.

The goal is to provide opportunities for families to enjoy healthy activities in the city with their dog and raise funds to support animals in need. Beneficiaries will include the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) and National Education for Assistance Dog Services (NEADS), who provide assistance dogs for people in need. Proceeds will also support a new pet food bank, which the Somerville Foundation for Animals plans to open this fall.

“With all the fun, funky, and innovative events Somerville has to offer, we of course cannot forget to get our four-legged residents in on the fun. I’m thankful for the partnership we share with the Somerville Foundation for Animals, the important work they do in our pet community, and for their work to bring this fantastic annual event to our City,” said Mayor Joseph Curtatone.

Planned exhibitions and “try its” include dog agility, weight-pulling, nosework, working dogs including Somerville Police K9 unit, treibball and urban mushing. The Doggie Fun Zone will be a new and exciting obstacle course for your dog to try as well.

There will also be the crowd-pleasing best trick contest, dog-owner lookalike contest and two free “Come when Called” clinics. The Fairy Tail Theater will be putting on a production of The Ugly Duckling featuring doggie actors as well. Food trucks will be on hand to provide a variety of lunch options. For more information, go to http://www.somdogfest.org.