Welcome to one of the most anticipated weekends of the year in historic downtown Mount Dora, Florida — the 40th Annual Mount Dora Craft Fair is returning the weekend of Saturday, October 25 & Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
This two‐day festival features hundreds of exhibitors, live music, festival food, local boutiques, and — a special spin we’re focusing on here — pets, pet crafts, and pet-friendly stops.
If you’re planning to bring your furry companion (or just love to shop for them), this blog post will walk you through the pet-centric highlights of the fair, the local pet-stores worth a stop, and what you should know ahead of time.
Why this year is a must for pet-lovers
Pet-Centric Exhibits
One of the great things about the Mount Dora Craft Fair is how broad the craft categories go — in the exhibitor list you’ll find categories like “Pet Beds”, “Pet Sewing” and “Pet Treats”.
That means you’ll be able to browse handmade pet beds, bespoke leashes and collars, pet-themed artwork, and gourmet treats for dogs and cats. Imagine gorgeous wood-crafted pet signs, hand-stitched pet blankets, custom pet portraits hanging next to fine art — it’s a great mix.
And since the fair is nationally ranked and highly juried, the quality will be top-notch.
Bringing Your Pet & Enjoying the Day
While the official site notes that the streets “can get crowded, and even the gentlest dogs may be uncomfortable” and recommends you bring your dog at your own risk, it doesn’t mean you can’t come — just plan accordingly.
Here are some pet-friendly hints:
- Bring a sturdy leash and be ready for busy pedestrian traffic.
- Pack water and a bowl for your dog (or plan to visit the pet-friendly stop below).
- Consider avoiding the busiest times (mid-afternoon) if your pet is sensitive to crowds.
- Be aware of other visitors who might be less comfortable around animals.
- Make sure your pet is well-behaved in crowds and can navigate sidewalks and booth aisles.
A Special Pet-Friendly Stop: DogTuff
For a real treat for your pup (and for you), make time to stop by DogTuff at 930 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora FL 32757.
They specialize in ultra-durable dog toys, safe chew gear, stylish collars & tags, and more. But more than that: they’re a fun pet-friendly boutique right in Mount Dora where your dog is welcome.
Why you should stop by with your pup:
- Free fresh water for Fido and maybe a free treats.
- A break from the festival hustle — a cool indoor or shady spot to relax
- A chance to pick up something special for your dog (or gift for a dog-lover)
- Great photo op: downtown Mount Dora is charming and dog-friendly
Local Pet Stores Worth Visiting
Downtown Mount Dora and the nearby area have a few great pet-friendly shops. Here are a couple to add to your list:
DogTuff
- Address: 930 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, FL 32757.
- Family-owned, focused on high-quality dog toys and accessories.
- Pet‐friendly: your dog can join you to shop and pick out gear.
- Great place to stop either before or after the festival for a little downtime and a treat for your pup.
Piglet’s Pantry (and other nearby)
- Located in Mount Dora as well. Specializes in dog bakery items: pupcakes, biscuits, fun treats.
- If you’ve got a sweet‐tooth for your dog (or want to spoil them), this is a fun side trip.
Pet-Focused Show Highlights & Itinerary
Here’s a suggested mini-itinerary for you and your pet during the festival:
- 9:00 a.m. Arrive early to avoid midday crowds. Park near 510 N Baker St (the festival main location) or look for nearby lots.
- 10:00 a.m. Wander the booths and head to pet craft zones (look for booths marked “Pet Beds”, “Pet Sewing”, “Pet Treats”).
- 11:30 a.m. Stop by DogTuff for a refresh and treat for your pup.
- 12:30 p.m. Enjoy lunch or snack from one of the food vendors, maybe pick up a drink or wine tasting (adults only).
- 2:00 p.m. Check out the local pet-store Piglet’s Pantry to spoil your pup.
- 3:30 p.m. Relax in the park or sidewalk café while your dog rests.
- 4:30 p.m. Final stroll through booths for last-minute pet-gift finds.
- 5:00 p.m. Festival ends; get home, give your pet a good drink and rest.
FAQ – Everything You Want to Know
Here are the common questions people search for, with the answers (tailored to pet-lovers):
Q: When and where is the Mount Dora Craft Fair?
A: It’s on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
The festival takes place on the streets of historic downtown Mount Dora. You can GPS 510 N Baker St, Mount Dora, FL to get close.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No — attendance is free.
Q: Is the festival pet-friendly? Can I bring my dog?
A: Well-behaved pets are allowed — however, organizers strongly advise that this crowded event can be a little overwhelming to some dogs.
If you bring them: keep them on leash, be aware of crowd congestion, and be considerate of other visitors who may be uncomfortable around dogs.
Q: What pet-related exhibitors will be there?
A: Yes! There are exhibitors in categories such as “Pet Beds”, “Pet Sewing”, “Pet Treats”.
So you’ll find handcrafted pet items throughout the fair.
Q: What about parking / accessibility?
A: Handicap parking is available behind City Hall at 510 N. Baker St, spaces are limited.
Public lots: For example, there’s a lot at 439 E 5th Ave, Mount Dora 32757 (for a fee). \
Because it’s in downtown, plenty of walking is involved — bring comfy shoes and maybe a wagon if you’ll carry lots of gear (or a leash for your pet).
Q: What times are best for pet-owners to visit?
A: Early morning (9–11 a.m.) tends to be less crowded, which may be more comfortable for your dog. Late afternoon (after ~3 p.m.) could also be better. Midday tends to be busiest.
Q: My dog needs water or a break — what’s a good stop?
A: Visit DogTuff (930 N Donnelly St), just north a couple blocks north of the event, for fresh water, shade, treat shopping, and a break from festival hustle.
Q: Are there other pet-friendly shopping stops nearby?
A: Yes — for example, Piglet’s Pantry (dog bakery) and other local pet stores listed in the Mount Dora pet-store directory.
Q: Is there any special pet-policy I should know?
A: Yes — the festival organizers note they are not responsible for any damage caused by pets. Also, please be respectful: some visitors may be intimidated by dogs.
Q: What should I pack when bringing my pet?
A:
- Leash (preferably non-retractable)
- Portable pet water bottle / bowl
- Lightweight towel or mat (if you stop in shade)
- Poop bags
- Snacks or treats
- Bring ID and maybe an emergency contact in case of separation
- Consider a cooling vest or bandana if it’s warm
Q: Aside from pet-crafts, what else is going on?
A: There will be live music in Donnelly Park, festival food & drink (wine tasting, beer, etc.), local shops open, kids’ art tent and more.
Final Word
Whether you bring your pup along or shop for your pup, the Mount Dora Craft Fair this October 25–26 is a fantastic opportunity to explore unique pet crafts, support local makers, and have a fun outing in a charming downtown setting. And with a dedicated pet-friendly boutique like DogTuff in walking distance, you’ve got everything you need for a pet-approved festival day.
Happy browsing, shopping (for the humans and the pets!), and enjoy your day in Mount Dora!
