The human residents of South Orange won't be the only ones celebrating next Saturday at the 6th Annual Celebrate South Orange festivities.  For the first time, canine residents will be welcomed with two attractions of their own.

Organizers have announced CSO’s first-ever PetFest, an enclosed area on Sloan Street near the gazebo where pets and their owners can take a break and play between the hours of 2 p.m. and 6 p.m on the day of the festival. According to a press release, water, treats, and toys will be provided by PetSmart of Millburn.

“At many outdoor festivals, there isn’t really a place to hang out if you have your pet along,”  explained festival volunteer Robyn Brody-Kaplan. “Setting up an area for dogs and owners at Celebrate South Orange encourages more people to come out and enjoy the music and the day.”

Also new to CSO this year will be the Pup Parade. Dogs of all ages and breeds are encouraged to participate in the show for prizes in several catagories including the dog most resembling its owner, best South Orange spirit, and, naturally, CSO Best in Show.

“Our dogs are as diverse as our town,” Brody-Kaplan said, “and we’re looking forward to seeing all of them strut their stuff on the CSO stage!”

No registration is necessary; all participating dogs and owners are asked to arrive at the CSO SecondStage in the NJ Transit lot adjacent to SOPAC no later than 4:45 p.m. All dogs participating in the parade must be leashed.

More information on Celebrate South Orange 2012, including entertainment lineups, participating vendors/community organizations, sponsors, and volunteering opportunities, is available at www.celebratesouthorange.org.