ST. CLAIRSVILLE — The David M. Lucas Dog Park will host its first Canine Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Dog Park behind the Health Department on Route 331 off exit 213 on Interstate 70.

According to festival organizers, it will feature food trucks and a wide selection of vendors selling their products and items, as well as inflatable play stations for the kids.

The dog costume contest will commence at 2 p.m. Saturday, with judges choosing winners in the following categories: Most Original, Funniest, Scariest, and Best Owner/Dog Costume combination. Attendees can vote for the Overall Best winner. Ribbons will be awarded.

The festival also will host a “Fetch 50/50,” where entrants pay for numbered tennis balls and a dog picks the winner. Balls are $5 for 1, $10 for 3, and $20 for 6.

“We wanted to offer people a chance to participate in our annual dog costume contest while offering additional activities to appeal to the whole family,” the dog park’s namesake David Lucas said. “There is something for everyone, whether you have a dog or not.”

“We would like to build on this event each year,” noted organization secretary Sherri VanTassel. “We are still waiting to see if we will be awarded the newest Natureworks Grant to enhance the dog park and add a modern, accessible, and skill building playground. If so, this gorgeous Fox Shannon Park will become a hub of activities.”

For more information, go to the dog park’s Facebook page.