UPDATE: THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL MAY 24TH 2026.
Families and animal lovers are set for an un-fur-gettable day out this Sunday when the Pets Life Festival takes over The Station in Newcastle.
The community-driven event promises a celebration of all creatures great and small, shining a spotlight on local animal rescues and the region’s pet-loving spirit.
Newcastle’s pet lovers will be whisker-deep in cuddles and cuteness with participating rescue organisations bringing cats and dogs searching for their forever homes. To support rescue efforts, festival-goers will be encouraged to bring along donations of food, treats, bedding, towels, toys or monetary contributions.
A full program of free activities adds extra wag to the day, including professional family pet portraits by Sydney Dog Photography, informative wildlife and animal care talks, and a popular reptile safety demonstration featuring five venomous snakes handled by professionals.
Young animal lovers can also enjoy free entry to a petting zoo stocked with piglets, goats, lambs, guinea pigs, chickens, ducks and more – with capped numbers to ensure a safe and calm experience.
For dogs keen to strut their stuff, a suite of fun competitions and races will be on offer, from Best Dressed and Cutest Dog to Waggiest Tail and size-based sprint contests. Winners will take home gift hampers from Healthy Pet Co, adding a little extra incentive for those proud pooch parents polishing up costumes and brushing tails.
A charity raffle will also run throughout the event, with 100% of proceeds supporting Newcastle Dog Rescue and Nine Lives Cat Rescue. Beyond the animal antics, the festival will also feature an array of stalls offering pet-friendly products, treats and accessories alongside food trucks serving up bites and sweet treats for humans.
The Pets Life Festival will take place at The Station in Newcastle from 9am to 2pm on Sunday 9 November. For tickets and more event information visit oztix.com.au.
