A Day Out That Changes Lives

What can visitors expect from the day overall, and what do you most want people to experience at the Fair? 
The Guide Dogs Victoria Community Fair is a celebration of dogs, people and purpose. Visitors can expect a vibrant day filled with puppies, live dog demonstrations, food trucks, market stalls, children’s activities and rare behind-the-scenes access to our Kew Campus. It’s relaxed, welcoming and designed for everyone, from families and dog lovers to long-time supporters and those discovering us for the first time. It’s also an opportunity for the community to stand behind access, mobility and the freedom for all Victorians to move safely through the world. These things don’t just happen. They exist because people choose to show up and support them. 

Which activities or moments tend to be the biggest crowd favourites, and what’s new or especially exciting for 2026? 
Our live dog demonstrations are always a highlight. Watching our incredible dogs navigate real-world scenarios alongside their trainers is inspiring and often deeply moving. You can also enjoy free eye and hearing checks, try puppy yoga, learn to braille, play blind tennis, and step into experiences that help you better understand the world from another person’s perspective. This year, we’re shining a light on the full spectrum of our work. You’ll meet Guide Dogs, Wellbeing Dogs, PTSD Dogs and other specially trained companions and learn how they’re supported by services and expertise that change lives every day. When you buy a ticket, you’re helping support the care, expertise and community that make this work possible. 

Can you share what people will see in the live dog demonstrations and how these moments help the community better understand the impact of Guide Dogs? 
Visitors will see our dogs working side by side with their trainers, navigating obstacles, responding to directional cues and demonstrating the focus and skill required to safely guide someone living with blindness or low vision. These demonstrations create understanding. People quickly realise this isn’t instinct. It’s expertise. Behind every step is a carefully structured two-year journey, from breeding and early development, through puppy raising, advanced mobility training and precise matching with the right client.  

Beyond buying a ticket and turning up, what are the best ways the community can get involved after the event? 
There are so many meaningful ways to become part of the Guide Dogs Victoria community. You can volunteer your time, open your home as a puppy raiser, take part in community fundraising campaigns, become a regular donor, or explore corporate partnerships that champion accessibility and expand life-changing support across Victoria. 

To book tickets - https://events.humanitix.com/guide-dogs-victoria-community-fair-2026 

To support Guide Dogs Victoria - https://vic.guidedogs.com.au/get-involved/donations/