Event Overview

The Blessing of the Animals is a special day celebrating the bond between humans and animals, rooted in the spirit of St. Francis. It’s a relaxed, “come‑as‑you‑are” atmosphere where you can bring your pet, meet other pet lovers, and participate in a blessing ceremony.

2026 Event Details

• Pets & People: All pets (and well‑behaved humans) are welcome.
• The largest, most prominent Blessing of the Animals Celebration in the Tampa Bay Area. A
  sweet, joyful, family-friendly festival for animals and those who love them. Bring your pets
  and family for a day filled with blessings, rescues, food, vendors, activities, and community –
  all under grandfather oak trees.
  Event Highlights
  • Blessing of the Animals Service — 11 AM. All animals are welcome at this service, where
  we celebrate God’s Creation, His Creatures, and our God-given bond with animals. Each
  animal will receive a special blessing and a St. Francis medal, along with a copy of Prayers
  for Pets and People.
  • Animal Rescue Village – Meet rescue organizations and adoptable animals**. Connect
  with volunteers working to protect animals across Tampa Bay.
  • Basket Benefit & Silent Auction – Place $1 bids on more than 75 delightful gift baskets and
  bid strategically on your choice of upscale tickets and products.
  • Café Under the Oaks – Relax in the shade as you enjoy specialty coffee, along with food,
  treats, and refreshments from local vendors.
  • Family Fun & Activities – Enjoy face painting, selfie stations, fishing for rubber duckies, a
  scavenger hunt, pet play and demonstrations, a pet psychic, the Frog Walk, and the
  beloved Doggie Confessions Booth.
  • Pet Care – Pet food – bring a bag if you can, take one as you need; vouchers for pet
  services
  • Pet Education & Advocacy – Learn from animal support groups, pet seminars and trainers,
  Pet CPR & First Aid training, and organizations working to fight animal abuse.
  • Vendors & Community Organizations — Shop arts, handcrafted goods, local foods, pet
  products and services, and access community resources from across Forest Hills and the
  greater Tampa Bay area.