Free Dog Swim Event Returns to Grand Rapids' Pool in 2022

We all need a pool day every once in a while - even our dogs!

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Grand Rapids Wag 'n' Wade Returns in 2022

The City of Grand Rapids' free event where you can swim with your pup is back for the fifth year! Wag 'n' Wade is August 21 starting at noon at Richmond Pool.

City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation, Facebook

Wag 'n' Wade happens the day after the pool season closes, right before they drain the pools for the off-season.

The event is free, but registration is required. The City of GR says registration will open July 25, 2022.

Wag 'n' Wade is split into four 1-hour sessions. Each session has room for approximately 200 dogs. The City of GR asks that you only register for one session, as they want to make sure every pup has a chance to swim. You can find more info here.

What to Expect at Grand Rapids' Wag 'n' Wade at Richmond Pool

The City of Grand Rapids will provide tennis balls, drinking water, and clean up bags.

Participants need to bring:

Proof of rabies vaccination (if you didn't upload when
registering)
Leash for taking your dog in and out of the pool area
A towel
A dog life jacket (optional, but recommended)

City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation, Facebook

Richmond pool is located at 1101 Richmond St NW.

While Wag 'n' Wade is free, the usual cost at Richmond Pool is $1 for residents under 17 and $3 for residents over 17.

Richmond Pool's 2022 hours are:

Mondays, 1:00 - 5:00 pm
Tuesdays, 1:00 - 6:00 pm
Wednesdays, 1:00 - 8:00 pm
Thursdays, 1:00 - 8:00 pm
Fridays, 1:00 - 8:00 pm
Saturdays, 1:00 - 8:00 pm
Sundays, 1:00 - 5:00 pm

You can view the live occupancy at Richmond Pool here.

Find more information about the City's pools and splash pads here.

Outdoor Games, Gear, and Equipment You Can Rent for FREE From Grand Rapids Gear Library

Grand Rapid Parks and Recreation recently added skateboards to the Thrive Outside Gear Library. Did you know about all the cool stuff you can rent for free? Just about anything you'd need for a camping trip you'll find in the Gear Library at Roosevelt Park Gym, plus team sports equipment, clothing, picnic supplies, even gear for cold weather activities too! The Gear Library is located at the gym at Roosevelt Park at 739 Van Raalte Dr. SW in Grand Rapids. The library is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm.