Pareidolia Brewing Company hosts its 11th Annual Running of the Wieners on Saturday, October 4, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at 712 Cleveland Street. This lively event supports HALO No-Kill Rescue Shelter, helping animals find loving homes.
Last year, spectators gathered for live music, tasty food, raffles, and adoptable dogs, helping raise about $2,000 for HALO. Organizers anticipate an even larger crowd this year. The event’s welcoming atmosphere ensures it’s enjoyable for attendees of all ages, including pets.
Founded in 2014 by Pete and Lynn Anderson, Pareidolia Brewing—Sebastian’s first craft brewery—has established this fun and quirky race as a local tradition. Come watch these spirited dogs dash across the brewery grounds, delighting everyone with their short-legged speed. Guests will also enjoy a selection of craft beers, ciders, wines, and classic pub fare.
Be ready for
- Thrilling Wiener Dog and Open Class Races
- Live Music by Group Therapy
- Exciting Raffle Prizes
- Adoptable pets courtesy of H.A.L.O. No-Kill Rescue Shelter
How to Register
Spectators are welcome free of charge. To enter your dog in the race, submit a $25 donation to HALO No-Kill Rescue. Dachshund and open class dog owners should register by emailing Pareidoliabrewing@gmail.com the following information:
- Your dog’s name
- Dog Breed (as they do have an open class)
- The $25 entry fee will be collected upon check-in on event day. After registering by email, please arrive early to complete payment and confirm your dog’s participation at the check-in table.
Race Rules
- Owners must stay off the track and behind the finish line during races. Any owner on the track or past the finish line during a race causes automatic disqualification.
- Owners may use treats or their dog’s favorite items at the finish line to encourage them, but must remain behind the line for the entire race.
- A racer finishes the race only when their tail fully crosses the finish line.
- If your dog places and can still compete, check with staff before leaving the area.
- Race staff resolve all rule disputes; their decisions are final.
- If the race start is disrupted, staff may call for a restart.
Music & Raffles
Group Therapy will keep the event lively as they perform a wide range of classic songs spanning various genres, including country, rock, and more.
HALO No-Kill Rescue
H.A.L.O. (Helping Animals Live and Overcome) No-Kill Rescue is a nonprofit shelter providing a safe haven for dogs and cats in Indian River County. As the area’s only no-kill facility, it works to rehabilitate and rehome abandoned or abused pets.
Services and Programs
- Adoptions: H.A.L.O. connects pets with new families through its adoption center, with a simple application process.
- Fostering: Community members can foster animals recovering from medical treatments or awaiting a permanent home.
- Spay/Neuter Programs: H.A.L.O. offers affordable spay/neuter services to control pet overpopulation.
- Volunteering and Outreach: Volunteers assist with pet care, events, and community education initiatives.
- Veterinary Care: H.A.L.O. provides medical care for recovery and rehabilitation.
To learn more or to sponsor a racer, visit pareidoliabrewing.com. Join the community for a tail-wagging, fun-filled event that supports a great cause!

