More than 20 dogs and cats at the Allen Animal Shelter could find new homes when the shelter waives all adoption fees Friday, Aug. 21, through Sunday, Aug. 23, as part of Clear the Shelters, a national campaign that started in North Texas.

The event runs at the shelter, 770 S. Allen Heights Drive. Doors open at 10 a.m. each day, with Friday hours running until 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday until 4 p.m. The city's announcement warns the event is expected to draw crowds and encourages prospective adopters to arrive early.

Every animal available for adoption has been spayed or neutered, microchipped and vaccinated. The shelter's current residents include several larger dogs that have waited longer than others for a family. Some animals arrived as strays; others were surrendered by previous owners. Families can preview available pets online through Petfinder before visiting.

The shelter's six-person team, led by Senior Animal Services Officer Karla Butler, handles adoptions and animal care. The city's stated goal for the three-day event: help as many animals as possible find permanent homes.

The adoption drive anchors a full slate of free events across Allen the weekend of Aug. 21-23.

Live music at Watters Creek Village

Last Call featuring The Top Shelf Brass plays the Village Green on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 8 to 10 p.m. as part of the Concerts by the Creek series. The show is free with first-come, first-served seating. Bring a blanket or lawn chair; food and drinks are available from Watters Creek restaurants. Outside food, beverages and coolers are not permitted. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, according to event organizers.

More free entertainment

Local musician Jacy Penland performs at The Grove at The Village at Allen the weekend of Aug. 21-23, according to Community Impact. Attendees should bring a lawn chair or blanket.

The Brass Tap hosts a "Game of Thrones" trivia night during the same weekend with themed cocktails and prizes.

Allen Depot history tours

The Allen Heritage Train Depot, 100 E. Main St., opens Saturday, Aug. 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on its regular fourth-Saturday schedule. Admission is free. Permanent exhibits cover the Houston & Texas Central Railroad, the Allen Station Master Office and the story of Ebenezer Allen.

Aug. 21-23 at a glance

  • Clear the Shelters free adoptions: Friday, Aug. 21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday-Saturday, Aug. 22-23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Allen Animal Shelter, 770 S. Allen Heights Drive.
  • Concerts by the Creek, Last Call featuring The Top Shelf Brass: Saturday, Aug. 22, 8-10 p.m. Watters Creek Village Green.
  • Jacy Penland live: The Grove at The Village at Allen, Aug. 21-23.
  • "Game of Thrones" trivia: The Brass Tap, Aug. 21-23 weekend.
  • Allen Depot open house: Saturday, Aug. 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 100 E. Main St.