Bring your pets to a Blessing of the Animals at a local church or park (or host a ceremony at home).
St. Francis Day lands on October 4th each year. It’s a day dedicated to the life and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, known as the patron saint of animals and the environment.
Many people observe St. Francis day by participating in the Blessing of the Animals — a ceremony where pets are brought to churches or parks to receive a special blessing.
This tradition highlights the bond between humans and animals, and reminds us of our responsibility to protect and care for our pets.
Below, we’re listing some of the churches that are holding public Blessing of the Animals ceremonies that are open to the community.
NOTE: Most of these events are the weekend of October 3rd & 4th, 2026.
But a few are later in the month, so be sure to save the date!
Tips for attending a Blessing Ceremony
Here are some tips to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during a Blessing.
Events are listed just below this section.
Temperament: Consider whether or not your pet does well in a crowd. If you don’t feel your pet will be comfortable traveling to the event (we’re looking at you, cats!), you can bring a photo of him or her to receive the blessing instead.
Leashing and containment: Keep dogs leashed, and use a secure, well ventilated carrier for cats and other small animals.
Hydration and comfort: Bring a portable water bowl for dogs, and a cozy blanket for kitties. You may also want a favorite toy or treats to help your pet feel comfortable.
Behavior management: If your pet becomes nervous, move them a safe distance from the crowd. Be mindful of any signs of stress or aggression and don’t allow them to escalate.
Identification: Make sure your pet is wearing an ID collar with your contact info. And of course, a microchip is always a good idea.
Preparation: Arrive early enough to find a good spot and help your pet acclimate. Be familiar with the event venue, find out if there are designated areas for different kinds of events, and follow any rules.
Blessing of the Animals: community events to attend
In general, all pets are welcome — dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, reptiles.
You can also bring a picture of your pet, a memento, or stuffed animal to receive a personalized blessing.
As always, click through the links for more info.
Events are listed in random order.
Dates in red indicate those that take place outside the actual St. Francis Day weekend.
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
10 a.m. — Bring pets to lower parking lot
2855 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Holy Cross Catholic Church – Embry Hills
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
11 a.m. — front entrance
3773 Chamblee Tucker Road, Atlanta, GA 30341
Brook Run Park – Dunwoody
Hosted by St. Barnabas Anglican Church
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
10 to 11 a.m.
4770 N. Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338
Brook Run Dog Park – Dunwoody
Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026
2 to 3 p.m.
Hosted by Marcus JCC of Atlanta
4770 N. Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338
The Park on Polk – Marietta
Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
2 to 3 p.m. — outdoor pavilion
The Park on Polk is located on the property of First United Methodist Church of Marietta.
56 Whitlock Ave, Marietta, GA 30064
St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church – McDonough
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
1865 Highway 20 East, McDonough, GA 30252
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Woodstock
Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026
10 a.m. — in the courtyard behind the sanctuary
1208 Rose Creek Dr, Woodstock, GA 30189
St. David’s Episcopal Church – Roswell
Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
5:30 p.m. – front lawn of the church
1015 Old Roswell Rd, Roswell, GA 30076
Log Cabin Community Church – Vinings
Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
3 to 4:30 p.m.
2699 Log Cabin Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
Trinity Presbyterian Church – Buckhead
Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
4 to 6 p.m. at the Magnolia Circle on church grounds
3003 Howell Mill Rd., Atlanta, GA 30327
The Cathedral of St. Philip – Buckhead
Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
10 to 11 a.m. in the Cloister Garden on church grounds
2744 Peachtree Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Peachtree Road United Methodist Church – Buckhead
Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
5 to 6 p.m.
3180 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
All Saints Catholic Church – Dunwoody
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
10:30 to 11: 30 a.m. in front of the church
2443 Mt. Vernon Rd., Dunwoody, GA 30338
Don’t see an event near you on our list?
Just google “Blessing of the Animals” with the name of your town or suburb, and you’ll likely find results!
You can also search Facebook events for “Blessing of the Animals
Plan your own Blessing ceremony at home
We have a list of public, community Blessing ceremonies just below! But if a community event isn’t right for you, you can organize a special blessing for St. Francis Day, in your own home. You can make it religious or secular, spiritual or just plain fun. You can celebrate the lives of living pets, or honor the memory of departed animals. Here are some ideas to get you started.
1. Decide on a blessing. You can find the traditional prayers online, read a poem about animals/nature, or write your own remarks, thanking your pets for enriching your life. The Unitarian Universalist Association has some resources here to help you plan what you will say.
2. Invite family and friends. This can make the event more communal and joyous, especially if they bring their own pets.
3. Prepare a space. Create the atmosphere you prefer by laying down a blanket, lighting candles (flameless are always good around cats!), decorating with flowers, playing music, etc.
4. Gather necessary items. You’ll have to decide for yourself what these are. A religious ceremony might include holy water. If you’re going more secular, you might “bless” your pets with their favorite treats.
5. Conduct the ceremony. When everyone is gathered together, read the blessing, prayer, or poem you’ve chosen. Go around to each pet that’s present and bless each one individually, using their names.
6. Include a special activity. This could be snacks for people and pets, a game in the yard, or chance for each person to speak. For example, you can all share a special memory about your pets or explain how you chose your pet’s name.
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