Bark Social, a popular Maryland dog park, bar and social club, will reopen its Columbia location Nov. 20 after being closed for nearly a year due to bankruptcy.
The company filed for bankruptcy in November 2024, temporarily shutting down all of its locations, including Columbia. The Columbia reopening follows the successful return of Bark Social’s Baltimore location in August 2025.
Now under new leadership, including CEO and owner Bradley Notaro, Bark Social says it’s excited to rebuild and welcome members back.
“It’s a company that’s really built by dog people. We take a lot of feedback from the staff as well as from the members,” said Notaro in an Instagram Reel in October. “Hopefully areas that don’t have these types of locations or opportunities definitely will see Bark Social in the future.”
The Columbia location is also welcoming back General Manager Jess Mendez, who was previously the assistant general manager before the closure.
“Columbia is a very tight community and it’s got a lot of diversity as well, so I think we’re just most excited to meet everyone and come together by our love for dogs,” Mendez said.
Mendez said with Bark Social being under new ownership, they are very focused on dog safety and enjoyment for all parties.
“Our goal is to be an inclusive and safe space for all. It’s all about building community here,” Mendez said. “People’s dogs make friends and they make friends, and I would say that pretty much encapsulates the mission for Bark Social.”
For previous patrons, the excitement for the reopening is clear.
“I’m so happy Columbia is coming back! We were so excited to get our membership when it was first built and I can’t wait to come back when you reopen!!!!!!” said user Alyssa Vitry Gasapos (@alyssa_bronco410) under an Instagram Reel.
“We absolutely cannot wait! @dulles_the_doodle and I have been missing @bark_social_columbiamd so much!” said user Janna Hindman (@jzucke1006)
Even for those without dogs, the reopening comes as pleasant news.
“So happy to see this! I don’t have a dog. But happy to see this nonetheless!! 🙌❤️” said user @trinirokcstarr.
The Columbia location is hosting an exclusive members-only VIP launch party on November 18 and 19 from 4-8 p.m. Members and dogs will have a first look at the reopened space.
The official grand opening weekend will take place from Nov 20-23 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m,. featuring special events, giveaways, and surprises. The bar and cafe will also be open daily.
Before attending the launch party or grand opening, Bark Social asks that all dogs have an annual membership, or a monthly/daily membership pass. All dogs must be registered and have updated distemper and bordetella vaccinations.
To learn more visit barksocial.com.
