American Idol Winner David Cook Headlines 2025 Pet Rock Festival

Pet Rock Fest, Inc. is thrilled to announce the 27th annual Pet Rock Festival, taking place Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Lancaster Fairgrounds.

And this year, the music is going up a notch—David Cook, winner of Season 7 of “American Idol,” headlines the festival’s live music lineup.

Best known for his soulful rock voice and chart-topping hits following his 2008 “American Idol” win, Cook brings his signature style and energy to the stage at Pet Rock Fest, adding a national name to a festival known for its big heart. With platinum-certified singles and albums, a Broadway stint in “Kinky Boots,” and millions of records sold worldwide, Cook’s performance promises to be a highlight of the day.

Following a successful debut year at the spacious, animal-friendly Lancaster Fairgrounds, the Pet Rock Fest returns with expanded programming, even more room to roam, and an expected crowd of thousands of animal lovers and music fans alike.

Pet Rock Fest is New England’s largest event dedicated to animal welfare, featuring live music, interactive activities, and more than 100 animal-focused organizations.

Proceeds from Pet Rock Fest benefit a variety of animal-related charities, including shelters, advocacy groups, rescue organizations, and farm animal sanctuaries.

Dogs on the Catwalk: Fashion Fundraiser for Sweetpea Animal Shelter

Sweetpea Friends of Rutland Animals, who are OUR friends at Pet Rock, is putting a stylish spin on animal rescue with the Furry Friends Fashion Fundraiser, a fun, family-friendly runway show to benefit Sweetpea Animal Shelter.

The event brings together local businesses, community members, and adoptable dogs for an afternoon of fashion, food, and fundraising—all in the name of reopening the shelter’s doors.

Guests can expect runway appearances by both pups and people, appetizers, a cash bar, and plenty of raffle prizes. Attendees also have the chance to meet some very good dogs looking for forever homes.

The event takes place Sunday, Aug. 17, from 2–5 p.m. at the Hamilton Rod & Gun Club in Sturbridge.

Organizers are still looking for foster groups with adoptable pets, local business “models” to walk the runway, and event sponsors to help make this a success.

Want to help? Check out event details here.

Because every dog deserves their moment in the spotlight—and a place to call home.

Early SIGNUPS are OPEN for Pet Rock Fest 2025

Want to participate in Pet Rock Fest 2025, either as a vendor, sponsor or nonprofit?

There is NO FEE for nonprofits to participate. GO HERE to sign up.

Interested in being a sponsor or vendor? GO HERE for more information, or simply email [email protected] and let us know you're interested. We'll send you more info about signing up.

To learn more, volunteer, or become a sponsor or vendor at Pet Rock Fest, email [email protected]. For updates and the full schedule, visit www.petrockfest.org or follow Pet Rock Fest on social media: Facebook (@petrockfest), X (formerly Twitter) @Petrockfestival, and Instagram @petrockfest.