Ocala Pet Palooza 2026: Everything You Need to Know

The 4th Annual Ocala Pet Palooza is coming to the World Equestrian Center on October 17–18, 2026 — and it's shaping up to be the biggest edition yet. The annual two-day celebration is one of Ocala's most anticipated fall events for pet owners, animal lovers, and families throughout Marion County.

What Is Ocala Pet Palooza?

Pet Palooza is a community-centered pet festival that brings together local animal rescues and shelters, pet product vendors, pet service providers, and thousands of animal-loving attendees under one roof. The event is designed to celebrate the bond between people and animals while supporting the local pet adoption ecosystem in Marion County.

The World Equestrian Center's expansive Expo Center 2 provides ample indoor space for exhibitors, adoption areas, and activities — keeping attendees and their pets comfortable regardless of the October Florida weather.

Adoptions and Rescues

One of Pet Palooza's most important functions is connecting adoptable animals with loving families. Local rescue organizations and shelters bring dogs, cats, and other animals available for adoption, giving them direct exposure to a large, enthusiastic audience of pet lovers. If you've been considering adding a pet to your family, this is an ideal opportunity to meet animals from multiple organizations in a single location.

Marion County has several active rescue organizations that typically participate, including groups focused on dogs, cats, rabbits, and other companion animals.

What to Expect

• Pet adoption area: Multiple rescue organizations with adoptable animals


• Vendor marketplace: Pet products, food, treats, apparel, accessories, and specialty items


• Pet services: Groomers, trainers, veterinarians, and pet health providers


• Competitions: Pet costume contests, agility demonstrations, and other activities


• Family activities: Kid-friendly programming and entertainment


• Food and refreshments for two-legged attendees

Bringing Your Pet

Pet Palooza is a pet-friendly event — well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome to attend with their owners. Given the large number of animals present, organizers recommend ensuring your pet is up to date on vaccinations and comfortable in crowd settings before bringing them. Verify specific pet admission policies with organizers before the event, as requirements may vary.

Event Details

Check the Only In Ocala events calendar as the event date approaches for updated hours, full vendor and rescue lineup, and any schedule additions. For more events at the World Equestrian Center, visit the WEC business page.