If your dog thinks it’s the main character, you’ll want to clear your calendar. Day of the Dog is back in Calgary this summer, and it’s bringing everything from dog races and fashion shows to an 80-foot pool party, brunch, and even a haunted house designed just for pups. This year’s festival is also getting a brand new home, giving Canada’s largest pet party even more room for four-legged fun.
Whether you’re bringing your own furry friend or just showing up to watch hundreds of adorable pups compete, swim, and strut their stuff, this is one event that is guaranteed to have tails wagging!
Every dog’s dream day
There is no shortage of things happening throughout the day, whether your dog is the competitive type or just there for the snacks.
One of the biggest highlights is the lineup of dog races, where French bulldogs, corgis, doodles, and dogs of all sizes will race for bragging rights. And even if you don’t have a dog competing, it’s easily one of the funniest parts of the festival.
If racing isn’t really your pup’s thing, there are plenty of other ways to join in. Dogs can cool off at the 80-foot pool party (complete with a DJ and canine cabanas), show off their style in the Dogue Fashion Show, or see how they stack up in the dog pie-eating contest.
There will also be a haunted house created by the team behind Haunted Calgary, giving pups the chance to sniff their way through a spooky obstacle course. You can also check out puppy yoga, a dog-friendly brunch complete with a spread of homemade treats, and photo booths where you can snap a few pictures with your furry friend.
The best part is that the whole thing is completely free to attend. You can just show up with your dog, wander around, and join in on all the fun without having to worry about any entry fees.
So basically, if your dog likes treats, attention, and making new friends, it’s safe to say they’ll have a pretty good day. And if you’re just there to admire everyone else’s pups, that’s half the fun, too.
When: Sunday, July 26, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: East Village – Between 4th Street and 6th Street
Cost: Free
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Kaiya Williams
Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.
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