Canidays 2026: the giant festival dedicated to dogs and their owners returns to the Yvelines countryside

Imagine a weekend in the great outdoors, surrounded by hundreds of happy dogs and their passionate owners. That’s exactly what’s on offer at Canidays, the giant festival dedicated to dogs, which returns to the Yvelines region in 2026. This unique event promises two days of activities, encounters and moments of complicity between humans and canines.

A festival for dogs and dog lovers

Every year, thousands of visitors gather to celebrate the strong bond they share with their four-legged companions. The concept is simple: to offer a space where every dog, whatever its breed or size, can enjoy adapted activities. Owners, for their part, find advice, workshops and, above all, a caring community.

The 2026 edition of Canidays is being held in the heart of the Yvelines nature park, a verdant setting ideal for this type of gathering. The organizers chose the site for its vast meadows and shady paths. This gives the dogs a huge playground, far from the noise of the city.

So, whether you’re the owner of an energetic golden retriever or a homely little pug, this festival has something for you. The atmosphere is family-friendly and relaxed, and every space has been designed with animal welfare in mind.

“Above all, this festival is a moment of shared happiness between dogs and their humans, in an exceptional natural setting.”

Varied activities for all levels

The Canidays program is more than just a group walk. There are agility courses, canicross initiations and dog training workshops supervised by professionals. These activities are open to all, beginners and advanced alike.

Dog sports demonstrations punctuate the two days. Visitors can also take part in conferences on animal health, nutrition and dog behavior. In other words, it’s a place of learning as well as entertainment.

• Agility courses open to all breeds
• Initiations to canicross and cani-VTT
• Positive education workshops with behaviorists
• Conferences on canine health, nutrition and well-being
• Relaxation and bathing areas for dogs

Practical information to prepare your visit

The festival takes place over two days, usually on a weekend between May and June, in the Yvelines département (78). Access is by car, with dedicated parking, but shuttles from nearby stations are provided by the organizers. It’s advisable to arrive early, as crowds are strong from the very start.

Admission is affordable. Children under 10 enter free of charge, and family packages reduce the cost for groups. Dogs, of course, are welcome at no extra charge, provided they are kept on a leash in certain areas.

On the other hand, remember to bring water, a canteen and toilet bags. Water points and dispensers are available on site, but self-sufficiency is essential. Your dog’s up-to-date health record is also required for entry, particularly for rabies vaccinations.

Food and beverage stands are set up on site for visitors. Exhibitors also offer accessories, natural treats and dog care products. It’s an opportunity to make great finds while supporting specialized artisans.

An event committed to the animal cause

Canidays is more than just a festive event. The festival makes a point of raising public awareness of responsible adoption. Animal protection associations set up stands and present dogs waiting for a family. Every year, several adoptions take place.

Volunteer vets offer quick consultations and personalized advice. This spirit of solidarity gives the festival a strong human dimension, far beyond mere leisure. As a result, many visitors return every year, faithful to this generous spirit.

Why Canidays is so popular every year

The success of this festival is based on a rare combination of nature, sharing and love of animals. Families enjoy an original outing, far from the screens and the daily grind of urban life. Dog lovers, meanwhile, discover new disciplines and enrich their knowledge.

Canidays ‘ strength also lies in its accessibility. You don’t need to be a dog training expert to enjoy the weekend. The warm atmosphere puts everyone at ease, including first-time owners who are a little hesitant. The festival is now one of the must-attend events in the Paris region canine calendar.

Whether you want to run with your dog, learn to understand him better, or simply spend some quality time outdoors, this festival ticks all the boxes. It’s a simple reminder that happiness can sometimes be found at the end of a leash, on a tree-lined path, in good company.

Registration for the 2026 event is now open. Places for some workshops are going fast, so it’s best to get in early. Join us in the Yvelines region of France for this unique experience alongside your faithful companion.

• Canidays