New York, NY- The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, is excited to present AKC Celebrates USA 250 as part of the AKC on ESPN Dog Sports Series. The event is a high-energy, family-friendly weekend of dog sports and entertainment taking place June 5th – 7th at the Philadelphia Navy Yard as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. AKC Celebrates USA 250 is free and open to the public!
“We’re delighted to be in Philadelphia for AKC Celebrates 250 and look forward to an exciting, event-filled weekend,” said Gina M. DiNardo, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club. “It’s a meaningful opportunity to mark our nation’s 250th anniversary while recognizing the dogs and people who serve our country, showcasing extraordinary canine athletes, and highlighting responsible dog ownership.”
Over three days, the Philadelphia Navy Yard will transform into a festival-like environment featuring high-energy canine competition and family-friendly experiences, including:
AKC Celebrates USA 250 will take place at the Marine Parade Ground Field at the Philadelphia Navy Yard from 11am to 4pm each day.
Additionally, debuting at AKC Celebrates USA 250 is the AKC FIT DOG Star-Spangled Scurry, a new addition to the AKC FIT DOG Programs virtual group walks! The event encourages dog owners across the country to get active with their dogs through a flexible, community-driven virtual 5K that can be completed from anywhere.
Participants can complete the 5K all at once or in smaller segments any time from June 1st through August 15th, 2026. Commemorative medals that act as your registration for the event will be available for purchase at the AKC Celebrates USA 250 event in Philadelphia for $20 each. A portion of medal sale proceeds will benefit a charitable dog organization.
For more information on AKC Celebrates USA 250, click here.
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Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its more than 4,900 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 28,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred and mixed breed dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, scent work, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests.
Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Reunite, the AKC Museum of the Dog, and the AKC Purebred Preservation Bank. For more information, visit www.akc.org.
AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.
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