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Everything you need to know ahead of Dog Fest at Harewood House this weekend

DogFest is heading to Harewood House this weekend, bringing together the region’s favourite pets for a day of shows, training and more.

Everything you need to know ahead of Dog Fest at Harewood House this weekend DogFest is back at Harewood House this weekend, bringing together the region’s favourite pets for a day of shows, training and more. The event will take place on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September, with pet owners given the opportunity to both watch dog shows and get their own pooches involved. DogFest will feature various ‘Have-a-go activities’, the ‘Fun Dog Show’ and the ‘ManyPets Village’ – as well as a visit from a few celebrity guests. Here’s everything you need to know about DogFest... When, where and how to get there? DogFest will take place at Harewood House on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September, from 9:30am until 5pm on both days. The venue near Harrogate is easy to access from the town along the A61, but there will also be frequent buses to Harewood village. It’s then a 10-15 minute walk. For those driving, there will be AA road signs on the day and parking is charged at £7. [caption id="attachment_79139" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] The crowd at DogFest at Harewood House.[/caption] Entertainment DogFest will have a live stage throughout both days, hosting various experts to talk everything from grooming and behaviour to mental health and wellness. The event will also feature the ‘ManyPets Village’ where visitors can enjoy the Zensory Garden, a free pooch ‘pawtrait’ and a pet health area. Breed Meet-Ups Visitors will be able to take part in ‘breed meet-ups’ that will see other dog owners sharing notes, stories and taking pictures. Owners are encouraged to stop by and chat with fellow ‘pawrents’ whilst the four-legged family members play, make friends and feel part of the pack. You may even meet some local dog owners to set a play date with and start walking together after DogFest. [caption id="attachment_77243" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] DogFest features two days of unique experiences, expert advice and shopping.[/caption] Celebrity Guests & Experts DogFest will be bringing together various trainers and behavourists, performers and dog lovers, with the following celebrities and experts set to make an appearance: Adam Fehmi Chloe Fuller Nicci Hindson Kerry Maule Kassie Wood Rachael Grylls Julie Harris Angelina Grylls Big Dog Walk The Big Dog Walk will give owners the chance to join thousands of others on a 2km or 4km walk and explore the beautiful Harewood House grounds. The event’s charity partner Dogs trust will be collecting a minimum voluntary £2 donation to take part which will help dogs find their forever homes. The set off times are 11am and 2pm. [caption id="attachment_77248" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Would your pet enjoy a day at DogFest?[/caption] Have-A-Go Activities Catch The Flag New for 2023, Catch the flag is a sport where dogs chase a lure (a flag or toy) which is quickly pulled by a machine through the grass to replicate a small animal running, stimulating your dog’s natural prey instinct. Hay Bale Racing Discover how fast your dog is against another or why not see if you can beat your own time as you take on a series of Hay Bale jumps. Dog Diving A great activity for the water-loving canine! See if your dog can make the biggest distance whilst being encouraged by the cheers of the crowd. The K9 Aqua Sports team will be on hand to help and it’s a great way to strengthen the bond with your dog through play. Many Pets Play Zone & Giant Ball Pit The ManyPets Play Zone is one of the most popular areas of the show. With a doggie desk chair for photo ops, swingball and giant ball pit, it's a great chance to unwind, bond with your dog and meet new furry friends. Dog Dancing Dancing feet..and paws at the ready! DogFest is proud to host the ultimate dog dance party. Don't miss 2023 Crufts winner Nicci Hindson and dog Elsa as they give you an intro to starting a career in dog dancing in the Have-A-Go Ring. Fun Dog Show Does your dog have the waggiest tail? Are they the most fabulous fella or loveliest lady? Do you have the dog the judge would most like to take home? With four Fun Dog Show rings and NINE classes to enter, there’s plenty of opportunities for your dog to win a rosette at DogFest – they could even walk away with the coveted ‘Best in Show’ title at the end of the day. The winner of each category will also receive a ManyPets goody bag. The Fun Dog Show will take place on both Saturday and Sunday and is open to everyone. You can book your place online at £2 per category or £3 on the day, subject to availability. [caption id="attachment_77249" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] DogFest's 'have a go activities' at Harewood House.[/caption] Can I visit Harewood House and grounds? The event sits outside of the general visitor area and access to the House and grounds isn’t included with an event ticket. Normal entry fees apply to visit the House and grounds, and tickets can be pre-booked online in advance here. Visit for half price We at Your Harrogate have half price vouchers available for DogFest on our website. Save £55 on a family ticket here. Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.

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