The Humane Society Doggie Carnival is back in Forsyth Park on Sunday May 3rd, 2026 from 12pm-4pm

The 24th Annual Humane Society for Greater Savannah (HSGS) Doggie Carnival is an annual, tail-wagging event bringing thousands of dog lovers together in Forsyth Park for a day of family and pet friendly fun! This carnival themed event features local vendors, businesses, cotton candy, popcorn, ice cream, food trucks, bounce houses, and a variety of dog and kid friendly games and activities.

Including the fan-favorite Doggie Derby where dogs race for the title of “Unofficial” fastest dog in Savannah with both small and large dog divisions. Crowds gather to watch the dogs run down the track, and the winning dogs advance to the final playoff bracket at 3p. What makes this event really fun is not just seeing how fast the dogs run, but watching them run in different directions, stop to sniff, roll-over, or play with the fans in the crowd.

This year we're excited to have TWO tracks for the SwiftPaws Speed Trap event! This track uses a lure system (a toy on a pulley), and a speed detector to track your dog’s speed through the course. The fastest top speed of the day will earn bragging rights as the HSGS Doggie Carnival Swift Paws Champion of 2026!

Our World Pup area lets your dog play with GIANT soccer balls and an agility course - safely fenced so pups can enjoy themselves off leash.

All activities are designed for 'amateur' dogs in mind. Whether your dog thinks it’s the fastest dog on the planet, is easily distracted by all the things, or just there for the attention, these events are all about fun and celebrating the joy dogs bring into our lives.

Families can also enjoy our lively Kids Activity Zone, making the day just as fun for our youngest animal lovers. Filled with fun like bounce houses, face painting, and hands-on activities for all ages, it’s the perfect place for kids to play, laugh, and burn off some energy.

All proceeds from the Doggie Carnival directly support the Humane Society for Greater Savannah. As the largest no-kill shelter in Georgia outside of Atlanta, HSGS works every day to better the lives of pets and people in our community. Last year over 20,000 pets received shelter, medical care, food, and other essential services through the various programs and services we provide - a record-breaking year made possible by people like you who believe in – and help support – our mission.

When you attend the Doggie Carnival, you’re not just making memories with your family and furry companion – you’re helping to save lives.