Woofstock’s Morgan Previews September Plans

Haverhill’s Woofstock is returning next month for its third year, and event organizer Cyndie Morgan says the visitors can expect even more.Last year, Woofstock brought 1,100 people and 400 dogs. During a recent appearance on WHAV’s “Win for Breakfast” program, Morgan explained why she expects increased participation this year.  “We know this year it’s absolutely going to be a higher number. I know for myself, personally, when I’m out in the community. I was at Canobie the other day with my T-shirt on that says Haverhill’s Woofstock and I actually had two people stop me, and tell me that they came to the event and that they loved it. So, that tells me the word is getting out about the event, and that just made me so happy to hear that,” she said.She explained the event is at full capacity for vendors and this year the sit-stay-eat-area moves to the middle of the farm space between the main area and the field.Other activities at Woofstock will include a 5,000-ball, ball-pit for the dogs to play in, and mental health discussions with Ellie Mental Health. The creative corner of Woofstock features Team Stella where children can read with a French Bulldog named Stella, along with Haverhill Promise that will hand out books for a third-grade reading level. Author of Benji and Maverick’s Brave Adventure Michael Mulkern of Mulkern Consulting, who based the children’s book of his son and his dog, will also be present. Sweet Paws Rescue plans live adoptions and fundraising for its building project. The band Rear Window will also be back to perform.Haverhill Police’s comfort dog Max will also be present along with Haverhill’s Sparky the fire dog.Morgan said to make the event more exciting than the last two, she plans to bring in a Swift Paws lure course—a 30-foot by 50-foot lure course in which a game of chase is simulated for dogs to take part. Swift Paws will bring photography and all safety equipment required so that the dogs may run and play. Morgan has been working with a local group called Business Insiders to fundraise for the course. A recent fundraiser at Garrison Golf helped raise money.Haverhill’s Woofstock 2026 takes place Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Chris’ Farm Stand, 436 Salem St., Haverhill. In the event of rain, Woofstock takes place Sunday, Sept. 20.Support the show