“Who says raves are just for humans?”
That’s what Chase Bowden, assistant general manager at BarkHaven and part-time DJ, has to say about the concept behind one of Orlando’s first pet-friendly music festivals. The Ivanhoe Village-area eatery and dog park hosts its first “Barkchella” this weekend, putting a pet-friendly spin on California’s massive Coachella event.
From 5 p.m. until late this Saturday, dogs and their humans can enjoy sets from DJs CHYMERA and CHASENSPACE, glowing lights, a foam party, Pawlicious doggie ice cream, jewelry and craft vendors, bubbles and plenty of high-energy fun throughout the evening.
Since opening its doors in November 2024, BarkHaven has grown its membership program and community, drawing visitors for taco Tuesday, wine Wednesday, breed meet-ups, singles night and dog dance parties, which helped inspire this event.
“We did a smaller version and named it EDC, the Electric Dog Carnival. It was such a huge success for us,” Bowden said. “We decided to throw a rave-style, dog-friendly and family-friendly EDM event.”
Barkchella is the first dog-friendly music festival hosted by BarkHaven in Ivanhoe Village on April 18. The foam machine is always a hit with dogs. (Courtesy BarkHaven)
Dogs are welcome and encouraged to attend, but not required at the event.
“You don’t have to have a dog to come. I always like to say that our dog run is like a free petting zoo, if you want to go in there and play with other people’s dogs,” Bowden said.
Additional festivities at the inaugural Barkchella include a make-your-own bandana station, a friendship bracelet crafting area, art for sale from Ohana Aura, apparel from Duvin and a chill zone away from the energy of the stage with fire pits and a teepee for relaxing.
Barkchella is the first dog-friendly music festival hosted by BarkHaven in Ivanhoe Village on April 18. (Courtesy BarkHaven)
As the dancing events have grown in popularity, Bowden expects several hundred visitors and dogs throughout the evening on Saturday. Based on the success of previous events, the business has identified a niche for dog-specific events.
“Everyone likes to bring their dog everywhere. They are definitely the new kids, so it’s cool to be able to include them,” he said. “They are the easiest icebreakers to open up any conversation with anybody. They are literally the happiest things on earth. It’s hard to have a bad time when you’re surrounded by dogs all day.”
Aside from this one-of-a-kind rave experience, BarkHaven has developed a reputation as a lively space for dog owners, with an off-leash dog park and grooming facilities, a highly rated menu from its scratch kitchen, and a full-service bar with specialty drinks.
Barkchella is the first dog-friendly music festival hosted by BarkHaven in Ivanhoe Village on April 18. (Courtesy BarkHaven)
This event will help usher in newcomers and existing members alike with a high-energy atmosphere and many opportunities to make memories.
“This isn’t your average dog park night. It’s high-energy, immersive and built for people who want to party together with their pups,” Bowden said. “This event definitely takes that to the next level. We encourage everyone to come early, stay late and experience BarkHaven like never before.”
Best Pet-Friendly Restaurant: 2026 Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards
Find me @PConnPie on Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com. Stay up to date with our latest travel, arts and events coverage by subscribing to our newsletters at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters.
If you go
Barkchella is from 5 p.m.-1 a.m. April 18 at 724 Brookhaven Drive in Orlando. A day pass is $15 for non-members. Proof of rabies, distemper and Bordatella vaccines is required. Dogs must be at least three months old, and dogs older than 12 months must be spayed or neutered. More information: barkhaven.com
BarkHaven Dog Bar in Orlando, pictured on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, offers a comfortable place to visit for both people and dogs. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)