On her walk down to the Sunday Market, fourth generation Ballardite Julie Albright said she realized how many cute dogs there were in the neighborhood.

Previously an event organizer and currently unemployed, Albright decided that Ballard needed a dog contest to show off all the pretty pooches.

“I used to do much bigger events than this so this would be a piece of cake,” Albright said.

Albright said the event, which she is calling the first annual Dog Day of Ballard, will be a free and fun event to bring Ballard neighbors and their adorable dogs together.

Dog Day of Ballard will be held at the Ballard Common Park this Sunday, Aug. 23 from 3 to 5 p.m.

Albright was surprised with how extraordinarily generous people have been considering that current economic climate Going as she went door-to-door to Ballard businesses looking for support.

“People have donated their time (and) money," said Albright. " And the parks department said they would co-sponsor the event because it’s a great way to use the park."

Sponsors include Trader Joe’s, Ballard Market, Romanza, Ballard Home Comforts, All the Best Pet Care, Bark and other, all who have donated monetary contributions or doggie treats.

The dogs will be judged by a panel of five. There will be 75 prizes and 150 goodie bags for the dogs who will have the chance to compete in categories like fluffiest tail, prettiest smile, wiggliest pug and best dressed.

“It’s not the Westminster Dog Show and is not like the movie 'Best in Show,'” Albright said. “My whole intention is to have a fun neighborhood event that is not commercial in any way -- that is just for Ballard dogs.”

Registration forms will be available at the event and a dog’s residence will be determined by its zip code.

There are three rules: Dogs must be on leashes, owners must pick up after their dogs and the dogs must be from Ballard.

“I don’t want people coming from Edmonds, Snohomish or Capitol Hill,” she said. “This is for our neighborhood and I can’t remember the last time somebody did something that was just for Ballard, not associated with commercial entities and is just for fun.”

Albright said she wants every kid with a dog in Ballard to show up. She said her intention is to have a family-friendly, free event where people can meet their neighbors and have a good time.

“When I grew up here literally everyone knew each other,” she said. “So many people have moved here in condos and many of those people have dogs. It’s a great opportunity for them to meet their neighbors."

Albright did say that one reason why she is hosting the event is self-serving reason.

“I don’t have a dog anymore and with this I get to see and pet all these great dogs all in one place,” she said.

For more information contact Julie Albright at juliepa@blarg.net.