Festivals are about celebrating the outdoors with great events to enjoy alongside family and friends. So why not bring along your four-legged best friend to take part as well?
Of course, not all festivals are suitable for dogs. Some can be too loud, uncomfortable, and stressful for our fur babies. It’s important to identify which festivals are suitable for our pets to give them as good an experience as you will enjoy.
It’s time to swap the bucket hats for bones and the lemonade for water bowls.
Fentimans, the dog-loving botanical brewer, whose mascot Fearless the German Shepherd proudly guards every bottle, looks at five paw-fect festivals that you can attend with your pooch.
1. Standon Calling, 21-24 July
Located near the village of Standon in Hertfordshire, this festival is as much for dogs as it is for their human companions. In 2022, Standon Calling (pictured above) will welcome headliners Madness and Anne-Marie alongside events including comedy shows and a costume parade.
For dogs, there’s also a food stall and water bowls scattered around the festival. There are also dog welfare services on offer, just to check on them if needed. If you’re looking for more fun, Standon Calling also has a dog show with competitive categories including ‘Dog with the Waggiest Tail’ and ‘Looks Most Like Owner’.
2. DogFest, 18-19 June
This one’s all about the dogs. While you have your own time to shine at human festivals, DogFest in Tatton Park welcomes our furry friends to try their paw at a range of activities and fun events.
The two-day event in Cheshire features a ‘V.I.Pooch Experience’, a ‘Dog School’, and a ‘Big Dog Walk’. Talking part in the ‘Big Dog Walk’ helps raise money for Dogs Trust – helping more dogs find loving families.
Your dogs will be able to meet a variety of breeds while you can enjoy the company of hundreds more dog-loving folk.
3. Lindisfarne, 1-4 September
Dogs must love the musical talents of Madness. The band features again at Lindisfarne Festival in September. The festival welcomes well-behaved pooches and well-behaved owners acknowledging that some dogs will lap up the attention of festival-goers.
The festival only asks that dogs do not enter the music marquees and to keep our friends on a short lead to help them feel more comfortable and safer. This music festival may be louder than others on the list, so this is one for confident dogs – others may prefer to snuggle up at home instead.
4. Shrewsbury Folk Festival, 26-29 September
This family festival is for everyone – including your dog. With a focus on folk music, the event is a great opportunity to explore new authentic artists and established performers.
Shrewsbury Folk Festival also promotes itself as a dog-friendly festival. It even offers free poop bags in case of any little accidents. Be ready to enjoy a diverse range of music. Who knows? Your dog may even sing along with a little howl.
5. North East Dog Festival, 3-4 September
Do dogs bark with a northern accent? The North East Dog Festival may be the best place to answer that question, with hundreds gathering to celebrate their canine companions in a range of events and activities over two days in September.
The event promises food, drink, and festival vibes for visiting humans and unimaginable fun for dogs. Hosting dog experts and fanatics alike, take part in agility courses, displays, and dog shows with plenty of prizes up for grabs.
Enjoy a festival with your dog this year and join a community of dog, music, food, and drink lovers alike. With so many activities and events across the country, there’s no shortage of fun to be had for both you and your dog.
