Most of us have likely seen social media posts sharing information about pets that need a good home. Whether they have been lost or abandoned or surrendered through no fault of their own, many dogs, cats, and other pets in our community depend on the kindness and generosity of people for their shelter and basic care. While we may not be able to house and feed them ourselves, there is a way to support organizations that do just that.
On Oct. 9, the Fayetteville Animal Protection Society will host its 14th annual Woofstock celebration at the picturesque Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Doors open at 6 p.m. for an evening filled with live entertainment, fine food, and community philanthropy with a single, worthy goal: to rescue shelter animals across Cumberland County.
North Carolina currently ranks second in the nation for shelter euthanasia rates. As the only licensed, no-kill, non-profit animal shelter in Cumberland County, FAPS receives no government funding and relies entirely on local generosity to keep its doors open. Since 2012, Woofstock has served as the shelter's primary fundraising event. Money raised through Woofstock directly funds medical care, nourishment and shelter for hundreds of homeless pets every year.
Headlining this year's benefit is On The Border-The Ultimate EAGLES Tribute. A nationally recognized touring band, On The Border will perform two full sets of classic hits.
Alongside the classic rock lineup, attendees will enjoy a full BBQ dinner, drinks and the chance to win exciting prizes. This year’s 50/50 cash raffle offers a major reward for supporters. Last year’s winner walked away with more than $2,000, and participants do not need to be present on event night to win.
The silent auction promises an array of premium packages.
“The silent auction is stacked this year,” says Jackie Peery, Executive Director of FAPS.
Highlighted items that participants can bid on include a complete orthodontic treatment package valued over $6,000, a seven-day Caribbean cruise, designer handbags, curated bourbon and cigar baskets, signed Bob Timberlake art prints, gift cards to Evolution Ink and themed baskets covering everything from "Cat Mom" to "Date Night."
Presented by headliner sponsor Mercedes-Benz of Fayetteville, tickets went on sale September 1. General admission is priced at $60, while $100 VIP passes grant access to the exclusive Tito's VIP Lounge inside the Grand Hall.
Unsurprisingly, VIP passes are nearly gone. As of September 22, only 9 VIP tickets remain available.
While sponsorship packages for Woofstock 2026 are officially closed due to finalized print materials, FAPS welcomes local businesses to explore year-round partnership opportunities for upcoming programs.
Despite being the city's largest event for animal welfare, attendees should leave their pets at home.
“Woofstock is a human-only, pet-free event,” emphasized Peery. “We celebrate our animals by keeping them safe and comfortable at home rather than bringing them (or kids) into a crowded evening event.”
By bringing together 500 attendees for an evening of music and giving, Woofstock 2026 ensures that Cumberland County's homeless pets get the second chance they deserve. Tickets can be purchased at https://secure.qgiv.com/event/woofstock2026/.