Mirvac Retail has launched Bark Fest, a week-long festival of events and activities for pet owners celebrating Dogs Day on Friday, August 26.

The festival is part of the company’s “Inclusive Together + Co community” initiative, which aims to recognise and celebrate families of all shapes and sizes.

The engagement takes place in five locations, including East Village (Zetland), South Village (Kirrawee), Moonee Ponds Central (Melbourne), Orion Springfield Central (Queensland), and Rhodes Waterside, with each venue having its own sets of programs and activities.

In addition, all locations are hosting a Vanity Fur – Best Dressed Photo Competition, where customers can upload a photo of their dog in their “finest attire” to win an $1000 Coles gift card. Activities include pet portraits, face painting, pat-a-dog, Paw Patrol meet and greets, and dog nutrition workshops.

Mirvac said that with 40 per cent of households owning a dog, there is a growing need to offer accessible, purpose-built spaces with amenities to accommodate pets.

Kelly Miller, GM, Mirvac Retail, said that as an animal lover, she is thrilled to launch Bark Fest on a national level and for the retail centre to create spaces and environments with pets in mind. 

“This is an event for the entire community, so we encourage all locals to come along and enjoy the events and offers, whether you have a furry family member or not,” she added.

The Bark Fest festival runs until Sunday, August 28. Programs and activities at each centre are available on Mirvac Retail’s website.