Festivities for Birmingham's Do Dah Day are just around the corner and there are plenty of activities for two-legged and four-legged friends.

Do Dah Eve will officially kick things off Friday, May 17 at Steel 1st and 23rd downtown starting at 7:01 p.m. There will be a raffle as well as an opportunity to meet those campaigning for Do Dah Day King and Queen 2013. Admission is $10.

The big day begins Saturday, May 18 with a parade that begins at 11:01 a.m. It will travel from Highland Avenue westward towards Caldwell Park, one of the Do Dah Day sites.

Registration for the parade begins at 9:01 a.m. on Highland Avenue and 33rd Street South. Entry fees range from $5 for walkers to $50.00 for political organizations or candidates. Those with cars are encouraged to early and no later 9:45 a.m.

Prizes will be awarded for the best float, largest pet, best dressed pet, best pet/owner look alike, best team and best movie-theme pet.

Festivities in both Rhodes and Caldwell Parks are scheduled to start at 11:31 a.m. Performers in Caldwell Park include headliners Luella and the Sun, Juka Tribe and Mile Marker 7. Gabriel Tajeu will headline in Rhodes Park. The Hearts, India Ramey, Feather Canyon and Marc Harris and Mojo Rising will also perform. Those attending are encouraged to bring their pets.

Established in 1979, Do Dah Day is Birmingham’s oldest event and has benefited local charities including Avondale Library, The Birmingham Zoo and the Alabama Theatre, according to its website.

Sure, Do Dah Day is a fun time to gather with furry friends and enjoy music, but the proceeds go to causes such as the Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s Transport Program.

Through a partnership with the Washington Animal Rescue League, the humane society sends up to 40 pets to northern states with little to no homeless animal populations. Volunteers transport the pets in a 33-foot RV.

The next transport bound for Washington D.C. leaves Tuesday, May 14 at 5 p.m.

Kelli Holmes, director of development at the humane society, says the purpose is to save animals’ lives.

Shelters in northern states have more room to take in homeless animals because of stricter spay and neuter laws, according to Holmes. Transports can also give animals a better shot at finding homes.

“It’s saving lives,” she said. “If we can give an animal an opportunity to get adopted in another area, that’s what we’ll do.”

Since its inception in February, the humane society has transported 78 dogs and puppies. It is projected to save 264 lives in 2013.

The program will cost the agency $30,000, and Do Dah Day attendance determines how much money it and other beneficiaries receive.