By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–Two by Two Animal Rescue in Helena has big plans for the third weekend in October when they host the inaugural Barktoberfest.

Barktoberfest is scheduled for Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Helena Amphitheater.

Two by Two is inviting anyone in the community to bring their kids, dogs and more to come out and enjoy the festivities that will include hot air balloon lifts, discounted vaccination and microchip clinic, pony rides, photo booths, food trucks, a dog park, bake sale, a dog wash, gift shop, adoption center, adopted dog reunion, face painting and a kid’s zone.

The dogs will also have an off-leash area to play while families can enjoy Saw’s Bar-B-Q, funnel cakes, candied apples and more.

Also in attendance will be celebrity dogs Woody, Clarence, Lazarus, Gwendolyn, Willow and Mr. Grumplestein.

Two by Two Rescue is also seeking volunteers and vendors for the event and those wishing to volunteer can help with set up on the afternoon of Oct. 16, help during the actual festival or volunteer to help clean-up afterwards.

Those wishing to purchase a vendor spot can do so for a fee of $50. A vendor spot will reserve one 10-by-10-foot spot and be encouraged to bring their own tent, tables, chairs and extension cord if power is needed.

There will be no vendor fee for non-profits if the vendor plans to donate proceeds to Two by Two Rescue.

Those interested in volunteering or purchasing a vendor spot can email Jennifer@twobytworescue.com.

Two by Two Animal Rescue is a 501 C (3) not-profit, no-kill organization. Two By Two began in 2002 when Sonya Smith began feeding strays in Old Town Helena, according to their website.

She noticed another concerned citizen had been leaving food for them too and placed a note in a bowl. The note was found. They met and combined their efforts to rescue the many stray dogs dodging traffic.

For more information on Two by Two and Barktoberfest, visit Twobytworescue.com.