Christmas cheer is coming to The Els Club as Barkfest by Feastival returns for a special festive edition on Saturday 12th December. Taking place from 12:00pm to 9:00pm, the much-loved dog festival invites dog lovers, families and friends to enjoy a seasonal celebration packed with activities for two-legged and four-legged guests alike.

From a bustling Christmas Market and dog-friendly activities to live music, kids’ entertainment and festive photo opportunities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Four-legged guests can make a splash in the large paddling pool, dance through the bubbles at the ever-popular Foam Pawty, sponsored by Himalaya Pet Wellness, take part in the Fun Dog Show and enjoy a host of festive activities. Meanwhile, visitors can experience the thrill of Ski VR, bringing a taste of the slopes to Dubai, browse the Christmas Market, enjoy delicious food and drinks and soak up the seasonal atmosphere.

Dogs will also have plenty of space to run, play and make new friends in dedicated off-leash areas for small and large dogs. Fresh drinking water stations will be available throughout the venue, with visitors encouraged to bring their dogs’ own water bowls to keep them hydrated during the festivities.

Little ones will have plenty to keep them entertained too, with a dedicated kids’ zone featuring bouncy castles, slides, soft play, face painting and festive activities, making Barkfest a fun-filled day out for the whole family. Festivities begin at 12:00pm, with Santa arriving at 2:30pm to meet guests and their furry companions. Visitors can capture the festive moment with a free instant photo with Santa to take home as a keepsake, creating a special Christmas memory with their loved ones, including the four-legged members of the family.

The much-loved Fun Dog Show follows at 3:30pm, offering dogs the chance to show off their unique personalities in a series of entertaining categories, including Scruffiest Mutt, Biggest Diva, Big & Beautiful, Cutest Cross, Best Paw Shaker and Best Dressed. Entry to the Dog Show is free, with exciting prizes up for grabs, including a Candypants Daydream family brunch, a hotel stay at Vida Creek Harbour, Sunday Roast for two at Habtoor Polo and a staycation at Hatta Fort Hotel.

As evening approaches, dogs and their owners can get moving with a free festive 1km dog walk from 6:00pm, led by Furrari. With glow sticks adding a splash of colour to the evening festivities, the route around The Els Club driving range will feature a series of Christmas-themed obstacles, including the Fairy Lights Tunnel, Snowball Pit, Snowman Weave, Reindeer Hurdles and North Pole Crossing. Designed for dogs and owners to enjoy together at their own pace, the walk promises plenty of festive fun along the way.

The celebrations will continue at 7:00pm with a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, accompanied by a live performance of festive favourites from singer Ayesha Reid, bringing everyone together for a little extra Christmas magic.

The Christmas Market will bring together a selection of pet and lifestyle brands offering everything from doggy essentials to unique gifts and festive finds. Visitors can browse stalls from names including Chiku Designs, Puffy Woof, Howl & Growl, Paw Haven, Perro, Furchild, Barkadelics, Puprazy, Yupp!, Brownie Pet Shop, Max & Mia, Hobbyz and Pretty Paws.

For those looking to refuel between activities, The Els Club will be serving up delicious food and refreshing drinks, available to purchase throughout the day.

Whether it’s meeting Santa, joining the Foam Pawty, experiencing Ski VR, finding a festive treat at the market, cheering on contestants in the Dog Show or taking part in the evening walk, Barkfest by Feastival promises a feel-good Christmas celebration for the whole family, with plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories together.

Tickets will be available exclusively on the door, priced at AED 50 per person, including a soft drink voucher and entry into the raffle. Children aged 12 and under and all dogs enter free.

Details:

• What: Barkfest by Feastival
• When: Saturday 12th December
• Time: 12:00pm – 9:00pm
• Location: The Els Club, Dubai
• Entry on the day: AED 50 per person (free for children under 12 and dogs)
• Website: https://www.bark-fest.com/
• Important note all dog owners:
  • All dogs must be social and non-reactive.
  • Vaccinations must be up to date and all attendees must present a pet passport or VacciCheck certificate.

Barkfest by Feastival is proudly supported by Betterhomes, Purina Pro Plan, JetCircle, Nexgard, Himalayan Pet Wellness, Happy Pet, and Pet Watch.