The Brookhaven Animal Rescue League will be hosting its second annual Barkfest on the grounds of the Mississippi School of the Arts Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in an effort to raise awareness and funding for the group’s endeavors.

“It’s a celebration of adopted pets and the people who love them,” BARL volunteer Samantha Sivils said Tuesday.

Everyone in the community is encouraged to attend. Adults, children and leashed pets will be welcomed.

“We welcome the entire family,” Sivils said. “Fido included.”

The event will include games for kids and pets alike, including Puppy Picasso, a canine interactive art booth providing paint and canvas for your furry friends to create a work of art with their paws.

Live entertainment is scheduled throughout the day. Expect the Lauren Lewis singers, Tim Alred’s Elvis impersonations, Bryan Barfoot, Stonewater and local high school band, Out of Nowhere, to take the stage.

Local vendors will be on site showcasing their crafts and services.

Plenty of food and refreshments will be available, including fresh-squeezed lemonade and various confections from a bake sale hosted by BARL volunteers.

In addition, several of the shelter’s dogs will be in attendance looking for a loving home.

The adoption fee is $70 and includes heartworm testing, vaccinations, spaying or neutering and micro chipping.

The festival was inspired by a group of MSA students dedicated to volunteer work at the shelter. MSA’s BARK Klub was organized by participating classmates who envisioned a way to bring BARL’s mission to the forefront of the community.

BARL is a non-profit, limited intake volunteer based animal welfare group serving Lincoln, Copiah and Franklin counties. The organization provides basic care for abandoned and unwanted animals until a home can be provided for them.

Funding is limited according to volunteer Julie Montalvo.

“Donations have slowed down, and grants aren’t as big as they used to be,” Montalvo said. “We do a lot more than most shelters and we would like to keep our quality up like it is.”

If you would like to help through adoption, volunteering or a tax deductible contribution, contact BARL at 601-757-4367 or make your way to the festivities Saturday.