Spotsylvania County Doggone Pool Party & Family Movie Night
Program Details & Spotlights
Treat your furry best friend to a splish-splashing good time at Spotsylvania County's annual Doggone Pool Party! Loriella Park Pool opens its doors exclusively to canine swimmers to swim, dive, and play as the summer pool season wraps up. Afterward, dry off and head over to the park's lawn for Family Movie Night under the stars, featuring a free screening of the hit animated film, 'Zootopia 2.' Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and favorite snacks for a perfect family night out.
As the peak summer season at Lake Anna begins to wind down, local pet parents and families know there is one circle-on-the-calendar event that you simply cannot miss. Just a short drive up the road from the lake, the annual Spotsylvania County Doggone Pool Party and Family Movie Night at Loriella Park is the ultimate "end-of-summer" transition. It is the one day of the year when the county turns the keys of the massive Loriella Park Pool over to our four-legged friends, allowing them to splash, fetch, and dive to their hearts' content before the water is drained for the winter.
For those of us used to the sandy shores and boat wakes of Lake Anna, this event offers a completely different kind of water-loving energy. The atmosphere at the pool is pure, unadulterated canine joy. From dock-diving retrievers to timid toy breeds dipping their paws in the shallow end, it is a spectacular social mixer for dogs and their humans alike. Local vendors often line the perimeter, and the air is filled with the sounds of splashing, barking, and laughter from families cheering on their furry athletes.
But the fun doesn't stop when the pool whistle blows. Once your pup is thoroughly worn out and towel-dried, the event seamlessly transitions into a cozy, old-school community evening on the lush Loriella Park lawn. As the sun dips below the tree line and the stars emerge, the giant inflatable screen comes to life. This year, families are in for a real treat with a free screening of "Zootopia 2." It is the perfect opportunity to spread out a blanket, share some popcorn, and cuddle up with your tuckered-out pup under the warm Virginia night sky.
Whether you are a lifelong Spotsylvania resident, a Lake Anna local making the quick trek up Route 208, or a visitor looking to experience the true heart of our community, this double-feature event showcases the tight-knit, pet-friendly spirit that makes our region so special. It is a wonderful way to bid farewell to summer pool days while welcoming the cozy, crisp nights of autumn.
Why You Should Attend
- Unrivaled Canine Socialization: It is a rare opportunity for your dog to play off-leash with dozens of other friendly pups in a secure, aquatic environment.
- A Double-Feature Night: You get two fantastic events wrapped into one—an active, high-energy pool party followed by a relaxing, family-friendly movie under the stars.
- Perfect Location: Loriella Park offers beautiful, expansive grassy lawns, excellent facilities, and plenty of space to spread out comfortably.
- Free Family Entertainment: Enjoying a newly released animated hit on a giant outdoor screen is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to make lasting family memories.
Insider Tips
- Pack Extra Towels (and Dry Clothes): Your dog will be soaking wet, and chances are high that you will get splashed too during the pool madness. Bring a designated "dog towel" and a trash bag for wet gear.
- Check the Vaccine Rules: Ensure your pup's rabies vaccination is up to date, as county staff will require proof of vaccination before letting your dog enter the pool area.
- Claim Your Lawn Spot Early: While the dogs are swimming, have one member of your party head over to the lawn to stake out a prime viewing spot for "Zootopia 2" with your blankets and lawn chairs.
- Bring Bug Spray & Layers: Late summer evenings in Virginia can bring out the mosquitoes as dusk falls, and the temperature can drop quickly once the sun goes down.
- Support Local on the Way: Grab some takeout from one of the great local spots along Leavells Road or Route 1 to enjoy as a picnic dinner during the movie.
⚓ Local Visitor Navigation Tips & Parking
Pool entry is $5 for county residents and $10 for non-residents; pre-registration is not required. Humans are not permitted in the water. Owners must provide written proof of rabies and standard dog vaccinations at the entrance. Movie Night is completely free.