Pickering animal lovers, mark your calendars. The City of Pickering is bringing back its annual outdoor pet festival, Pickering Petapolooza, on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Esplanade Park.
The popular community event returns with a packed schedule of activities designed for pets and their owners, featuring over 100 exhibitors showcasing animal products and services from across the Durham Region and beyond.
One of the biggest draws this year is the live performance by the SuperDogs, the renowned canine entertainment troupe known for their high-energy shows that combine agility, tricks, and crowd-pleasing stunts. Dog sport enthusiasts can also catch demonstrations and competitions with Ontario DockDogs, where dogs compete in dock diving and jumping events that always draw cheers from the audience.
Beyond the mainstage attractions, Pickering Petapolooza offers interactive experiences for attendees and their furry companions. Visitors can participate in yoga sessions with their pups, try animal reiki, navigate lure courses, or enjoy pet colouring activities. A caricature artist will be on site creating custom portraits, and families can snap photos with Sparky the Fire Dog and the popular Undercover Dachshund character.
A variety of food trucks will be parked throughout the venue, offering meals and snacks for human attendees throughout the day. Whether you are craving savoury bites or sweet treats, there will be plenty of options to choose from while enjoying the festivities.
Lindsey Narraway, Supervisor of Animal Services for the City of Pickering, highlighted what makes this Pickering Petapolooza special for Durham residents.
“Pickering Petapolooza offers an experience like no other,” Narraway said. “This event is completely centred around our furry friends, with activities designed to enrich their lives while fostering community connection. It’s a great opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy quality time with their pets.”
Pickering Petapolooza serves as Pickering Animal Services’ largest fundraiser of the year. A voluntary five dollar donation will be accepted at the entrance, with all proceeds supporting the development of a new animal shelter in Pickering to better serve animals in need across the Durham Region.
For the safety of all attendees, the city is asking pet owners to use good judgment when deciding whether to bring their animals. Pets that do not do well with crowds, loud noises, other animals, or unfamiliar people should be left at home for their own comfort and safety.
All dogs entering the event must comply with Pickering’s Responsible Pet Ownership By-law 6811/07 and the provincial Dog Owners’ Liability Act. Owners are responsible for their pets’ behaviour at all times during the Pickering Petapolooza festival.
The Pickering Petapolooza has grown into one of the most anticipated spring events in Durham Region, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Whether you are a dedicated pet owner or simply looking for a fun family outing, the festival offers something for everyone.
Esplanade Park is located in downtown Pickering, easily accessible by public transit and with ample parking available nearby. For more information about Pickering Petapolooza, including the full schedule of events and exhibitor listings, visit the City of Pickering’s official website.
