The National Cherry Blossom Festival and Mars Petcare Better Cities for Pets received a Gold Pinnacle Award from the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) in the “Best Sponsorship Program for an Individual Sponsor” category. The award was presented for the inaugural year of the Paws and Petals program, which made select signature events of the National Cherry Blossom Festival “pet ready.”
Throughout the Festival, which attracts millions of visitors from around the world, pet owners visited pet comfort stations featuring waste bag distribution, treats, shade, and water stations using bowls with potable water to keep dogs hydrated and out of the sun, as well as educational resources for pet owners on responsible pet ownership and the importance of creating more pet-friendly spaces. More than 800 dogs were serviced at the Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza, and the Tidal Basin.
“This program, combined with the expert advice and guidance of Marts Petcare served as a strong model to ensure that in 2018 the Festival was not just pet friendly, but that it was pet-ready,” said Diana Mayhew, President of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
Each year, the IFEA recognizes outstanding accomplishments and top quality creative, promotional, operational and community outreach programs and materials produced by festivals and events around the world.
