Festivals are a fantastic way to celebrate life, culture, and community—and what’s better than sharing these experiences with your furry friend? In 2025, pet-friendly festivals are taking center stage, offering everything from dog parades to pet costume contests. Whether you’re a dog lover, cat enthusiast, or proud pet parent of any kind, these events are designed to include your four-legged companion.
For even more unforgettable pet-friendly travel experiences, check out our guide to the Ultimate Pet-Friendly Travel Destinations.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best pet-friendly festivals you’ll love attending together in 2025.
Why Attend Pet-Friendly Festivals?
Pet-friendly festivals are more than just fun—they’re a celebration of the bond between pets and their owners. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), “Attending pet-friendly events can improve your pet’s socialization skills and strengthen your bond.” These festivals often feature activities like agility courses, pet photo booths, and even gourmet pet treats, making them a must-visit for any pet lover.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Top 10 Pet-Friendly Festivals for 2025
Here’s our list of the best pet-friendly festivals you won’t want to miss in 2025:
1. Mardi Paws (New Orleans, Louisiana)
This festival is a pet-friendly twist on the famous Mardi Gras celebration. Expect dog parades, costume contests, and plenty of beads for your furry friend. According to Travel + Leisure, “Mardi Paws is one of the most unique pet-friendly festivals in the U.S., combining Southern charm with pet-friendly fun.”
Travel + Leisure
- 🐾 Southern Charm Meets Pet Fun: A pet-friendly twist on Mardi Gras, complete with dog parades, costume contests, and bead-throwing for your furry friends.
- 🎉 Unique Experience: Travel + Leisure calls it “one of the most unique pet-friendly festivals in the U.S.”
- 🍹 Pet-Friendly Eats: Local vendors offer gourmet pet treats and human-friendly Cajun cuisine.
- 📸 Photo Ops: Don’t miss the iconic French Quarter backdrops for Insta-worthy pics with your pet.
2. Bark in the Park (San Diego, California)
This annual event features dog-friendly activities like agility courses, pet adoptions, and a “Yappy Hour” with treats for both pets and owners.
- 🐶 Agility Adventures: Test your dog’s skills on obstacle courses designed for all skill levels.
- 🍻 Yappy Hour: Enjoy craft beer for humans and gourmet snacks for pups.
- 🐾 Adoption Opportunities: Meet rescue organizations and find your next furry family member.
- 🌊 Beach Vibes: Located near dog-friendly beaches for post-festival fun.
3. Woofstock (Toronto, Canada)
Known as the world’s largest dog festival, Woofstock offers everything from pet fashion shows to gourmet dog treats. It’s a must-visit for dog lovers.
- 🌍 World’s Largest Dog Festival: A two-day extravaganza with over 200,000 attendees.
- 🐕 Pet Fashion Shows: Watch dogs strut their stuff in the latest trends.
- 🍴 Gourmet Treats: Sample artisanal dog food and treats from top brands.
- 🎶 Live Music: Enjoy tunes while your pup socializes with new friends.
4. CatCon (Pasadena, California)
This festival is a paradise for cat lovers, featuring cat adoptions, celebrity cat meet-and-greets, and interactive workshops.
- 🐱 Feline Paradise: A must-visit for cat lovers, featuring celebrity cats like Grumpy Cat (if reincarnated!).
- 🛍️ Shopping Galore: Browse unique cat-themed merchandise, from art to accessories.
- 🎨 Interactive Workshops: Learn about cat care, photography, and DIY cat toy-making.
- 🏠 Adoption Zone: Meet adoptable cats and kittens from local shelters.
5. Dog Days of Summer (Chicago, Illinois)
This festival celebrates all things dog, with activities like dog yoga, splash pools, and a “Pup Crawl” through local pet-friendly businesses.
- 🧘 Dog Yoga: Stretch and bond with your pup in a relaxing session.
- 💦 Splash Pools: Let your dog cool off in specially designed water play areas.
- 🐾 Pup Crawl: Explore local pet-friendly businesses with your furry companion.
- 🎵 Live Entertainment: Enjoy music and performances while your dog socializes.
6. Pet-A-Palooza (Vancouver, Canada)
This family-friendly event features pet adoptions, agility courses, and a “Pawlooza” stage with live entertainment for pets and owners alike.
- 🐾 Family Fun: A day full of activities for pets and their humans, including agility courses and pet adoptions.
- 🎤 Pawlooza Stage: Live entertainment, from dog tricks to musical performances.
- 🍔 Food Trucks: Savor delicious eats while your pet enjoys gourmet treats.
- 🛍️ Vendor Market: Shop for pet products, from toys to trendy accessories.
7. Strut Your Mutt (Nationwide)
Hosted by Best Friends Animal Society, this fundraising event includes dog walks, costume contests, and pet-friendly vendors.
- 🐕 Fundraising Fun: Support Best Friends Animal Society while walking your dog.
- 🎭 Costume Contests: Dress up your pup for a chance to win prizes.
- 🛍️ Pet-Friendly Vendors: Explore booths offering everything from pet gear to treats.
- 💖 Community Spirit: Join thousands of animal lovers in supporting a great cause.
8. Dogtoberfest (Austin, Texas)
This festival combines German beer garden vibes with dog-friendly fun, featuring a dog costume contest, live music, and pet-friendly vendors.
- 🍻 Beer Garden Vibes: Sip on local brews while your dog enjoys the festive atmosphere.
- 🎶 Live Music: Tap your feet to live bands while your pup lounges by your side.
- 🐾 Costume Contest: Dress your dog in Bavarian-inspired outfits for a chance to win.
- 🛍️ Pet Market: Shop for unique pet products and treats.
9. Paws in the Park (Orlando, Florida)
This event offers a dog walk, pet adoptions, and a “Paw Zone” with agility courses and interactive games for pets.
- 🐾 Dog Walk: Stroll through scenic trails with your furry friend.
- 🎪 Paw Zone: Agility courses, interactive games, and photo booths for pets.
- 🏠 Adoption Drive: Meet adoptable pets from local shelters.
- 🍦 Treats for All: Enjoy ice cream for humans and pups alike.
10. Howl-O-Ween (Nationwide)
Celebrate Halloween with your pet at this nationwide festival, featuring pet costume contests, trick-or-treating, and spooky photo ops.
- 🎃 Spooky Fun: Celebrate Halloween with pet costume contests and trick-or-treating.
- 📸 Photo Ops: Capture memories at themed photo booths.
- 🍬 Pet-Friendly Treats: Hand out healthy treats to furry trick-or-treaters.
- 👻 Haunted Activities: Explore pet-friendly haunted houses and mazes.
Tips for Attending Pet-Friendly Festivals
Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at pet-friendly festivals:
- Plan Ahead: Check the festival’s schedule and map out the activities you and your pet want to enjoy.
- Bring Essentials: Pack water, a bowl, poop bags, and a leash for your pet. Don’t forget their favorite treats!
- Monitor Your Pet: Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior and comfort level, especially in crowded areas.
- Stay Hydrated: Festivals can be hot and crowded, so ensure your pet stays hydrated and takes breaks in the shade.
- Check Vaccination Requirements: Some festivals may require proof of vaccinations, so bring your pet’s records just in case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pet-Friendly Festivals Safe for All Pets?
Most pet-friendly festivals are safe for well-socialized pets, but it’s important to monitor your pet’s behavior and comfort level. According to the ASPCA, “Always ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and behaves well around other animals before attending a festival.”
ASPCA
Can I Bring My Cat to a Pet-Friendly Festival?
While most festivals are dog-focused, events like CatCon are specifically designed for cat lovers. Always check the festival’s guidelines before bringing your cat.
What Should I Bring to a Pet-Friendly Festival?
Bring essentials like water, a bowl, poop bags, a leash, and your pet’s favorite treats. Don’t forget a portable pet bed or blanket for breaks.
Ready to Celebrate with Your Pet?
Now that you know the 10 best pet-friendly festivals for 2025, it’s time to start planning your next adventure! Whether you’re attending Mardi Paws or Woofstock, these events are sure to create unforgettable memories for you and your furry friend. Don’t forget to check out our guide on 10 Best Cat-Friendly Travel Destinations for more tips. Happy festival season!