The Pawsitively Elgin Dog Festival isn’t just an event—it’s a full-on tail-wagging celebration of the special bond between people and their pups! It’s the ulti-mutt day out, filled with fresh air, delicious eats, unique shopping, and—you guessed it—dogs. So. Many. Dogs.

Whether you’ve got a furry best friend of your own or just love being around adorable wagging tails, this is your chance to soak up the sunshine, enjoy a paw-some day in the park, and support a cause that’s all about giving back to our four-legged friends.

Countdown to PAWS 2026!

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Dates: Saturday July 18 and Sunday July 19, 2026

Time: Saturday 10am – 5pm - Sunday 10am – 3pm

Pinafore Park 95 Elm St St Thomas, ON N5R 1H7

$10.00 / person, kids 12 and under free!

Dogs Welcome

People Tolerated

Contact Us

SINCE 2017…

The Pawsitively Elgin (PAWS) Dog Festival is powered entirely by volunteers—yep, all of us, including our paws-itively amazing 12 Committee members! Every year, we gather in the gorgeous Pinafore Park in St. Thomas to celebrate all things canine.

PAWS was created to shine a spotlight on the importance of dog adoption and animal rescues—the unsung heroes doing the hard (and sometimes heart-tugging) work of saving lives. It’s not always belly rubs and tail wags, but we believe in making a difference, one paw at a time.

Starting in 2025, all profits from the festival will be donated to Helping Paws Rescue, with a special gift going to the St. Thomas Animal Shelter—because giving back feels as good as a puppy cuddle.

We’re always chasing our tails to make each year’s festival even better than the last, so come join the fun! Bring your two-legged and four-legged friends for a day of sunshine, fresh air, tasty treats, unique shopping, and—best of all—dogs. So. Many. Dogs.  Because nothing brings people together like wagging tails, happy trails, and a park full of furry joy.

Our Mission

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Let's talk about Event Insurance!

Okay, it’s not everyone’s favourite topic, but it doesn’t have to be painful.  We partnered up with DUUO Canada for our 2023 event, and we’ve been using them every since.  Their two day event insurance is super easy to get, it’s under $34 for both days and you can do it on online where you don’t even have to talk to a person!  How great is that?

Learn More

Helping Paws Rescue

Helping Paws Rescue is a non- profit, no kill, all volunteer run animal rescue. Our mission is to rescue homeless and abandoned animals…

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Here’s what’s waiting for you at the festival…

  • Vendors & Sponsors – Endless shopping and browsing fun!

  • Pet Valu SWAG Bags – Grab yours while supplies last!

  • VIP Tent Access – Limited to just 200 exclusive memberships

  • Microchip Clinic - get your pet chipped for $50!

  • Exciting Dog Entertainment Shows

  • FREE PAWZO BINGO – Play to win the grand prize!

  • FREE Kid’s Treasure Hunt (Ages 12 & under) – One lucky winner takes the big prize!

  • Scent Dog Demonstrations – A nose for action!

  • Sassy Squirrels – Yes, really.

  • Lure Course Fun – Let your pup chase and play!

  • Try-Out Agility Training – You or your dog… whatever works!

  • Kid’s Zone – Packed with fun for little ones

  • Live Stage Shows – Entertainment for all ages

  • Bouncy Castles – Jump into the fun

  • Doggie Cool-Off Zone – Chill out, pups!

  • Mega Sniffing Spots – A sensory paradise for dogs

  • Food, Drinks, and Ice Cream – Treats for everyone

  • Friendly Bugs (and the occasional rascal)

  • Prizes & Raffles Galore

  • Live Auction on the Main Stage

  • Fun for the Whole Family

  • And so much more!