As the 2025 Calgary Pet Fest approaches, scheduled for April 11–13 at the Spruce Meadows Equi-Plex & Upper Plaza, I find myself reminiscing about last year’s event. The 2024 Calgary Pet Fest was a delightful whirlwind of wagging tails, curious whiskers, and joyful barks, bringing together pet enthusiasts from all over the region to celebrate the magic of animals. Having attended Pet Fest a couple of times now, I can say it’s always a highlight of the year, though I’m still on the fence about going again this time around. Living in Okotoks, it’s an easy drive for us—we take the back roads into the city, which makes the journey to Spruce Meadows a breeze. The venue itself is always a pleasure to visit, with its clean, well-organized setup and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every event there feel special. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to revisit the 2024 Pet Fest and explore some of the other fantastic events that make Spruce Meadows a gem in Alberta’s event landscape.
The 2024 Pet Fest: A Canine Carnival and More
The 2024 Calgary Pet Fest, held from April 19–21, was a three-day celebration that turned Spruce Meadows into a paradise for pet lovers. The event was a vibrant mix of entertainment, education, and community spirit, with a diverse lineup of animals stealing the show. Dogs were the undeniable stars, with the Equi-Plex Animal Services Arena buzzing with high-energy activities. The Prairie Dogs Agility Team wowed the crowd with their lightning-fast runs through obstacle courses, their tiny legs a blur as they navigated tunnels and jumps with precision. The corgi races on Friday night were a particular favorite—those little pups with their big personalities dashed across the arena, ears flopping and tails wagging, while the audience roared with laughter and cheers.
But it wasn’t just about dogs. The Reptilian Pavilion brought an exotic flair to the fest, showcasing creatures like vibrant geckos, bearded dragons, and even a massive ball python that slithered gracefully under the careful watch of its handler. I remember watching a group of kids, wide-eyed, as they learned about the python’s diet and habitat, their initial hesitation turning into fascination. The mini-animal petting zoo was another hit, especially for families. Fluffy rabbits, guinea pigs, and even a few hedgehogs were on hand for gentle cuddles, teaching kids about the importance of kindness to animals. I couldn’t help but smile as a little girl giggled uncontrollably while a hedgehog sniffed her hand.
