FRYEBURG - The Fryeburg Fairgrounds will be the backdrop for the first bestfriend weekend~Passion for Pets Animal Fair Saturday, July 26. Western Maine Pet Project Inc. and I Believe…Dog Rescue, in conjunction with Harvest Hills Animal Shelter, have organized the event dedicated to animals and the people who love them.

Admission is free. Gates will open at 10 a.m.

Representatives from more than 15 animal shelters and rescue groups, including horse and ferret rescues, will showcase some of their pets.

Fair highlights include pet demonstrations - speed dogging, carting, etc.- a pet parade and pet supply vendors. At 5:30 p.m., the Harvest Hills Animal Shelter will put on a barbecue chicken dinner with all the fixings.

At 7 p.m., there will be a community drumming circle where attendees can join facilitator Matt Lord in a rhythmic celebration of friendship and community. Bring ad rum, shaker, rattle, tambourine or other items that will make music - or visit the make-a-shaker table at the fair - and join the circle, make new friends and enjoy the camaraderie of pet lovers from all over. I Believe…Dog Rescue will host a wiener roast during the drumming circle.

The animal fair will go on rain or shine. Your own pets are welcome. For more information, log on to www.bestfriend weekend.org.