Vet Fest 2026 welcomes group for free household enjoyable | Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine

March 18, 2026

By Colby Maclin

Vet Fest, a family-friendly occasion hosted by Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, will happen on Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the faculty’s Wire Road campus. Focused on STEM and veterinary academic programming, this free occasion is open to all ages for reside animal encounters, hands-on experiences and extra.

Vet Fest goals to assist aspiring scientists and group members study extra about veterinary drugs, biomedical science and public well being. The occasion will function the Auburn University Raptor Center, a petting zoo, canine sports activities and obedience demonstrations, a paleontology dig, a “pooch parade” and extra.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages and helping them learn about the breadth of the College of Veterinary Medicine, including the connections between animal, human and public health,” mentioned College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Calvin Johnson. “Vet Fest offers a fun way for us to inspire curiosity, encourage hands-on learning and help young people explore their interests in veterinary medicine and other facets of science and healthcare.  It’s also a way for us to thank the community for its support of our unique program.”

The ever-popular Teddy Bear Surgery will return this yr, permitting kids to develop into junior docs and assist sew up wounded “patients.” Appointments will likely be accessible for sign-up on the day of the occasion from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Please notice, there’s an overflow of in-house sufferers that need assistance, so attendees are requested to depart any stuffed animals of their very own at residence.

One of the latest additions to the occasion, the AUCVM Art Gallery will showcase paintings from the College of Veterinary Medicine’s college students, school and workers. Featured items will vary from sketches and work to crochets and cross-stitches.

For years, Vet Fest has fostered curiosity and a love of science by offering alternatives to attach with the College of Veterinary Medicine’s college students, school and workers and interesting members of the family of all ages. Event co-coordinator Dr. Brandi Brunson mentioned it additionally helps present veterinary college students take a step away from the books and interact with the group.

“Sometimes our DVM students get so caught up in the day-to-day that they have trouble seeing the forest for the trees,” Brunson mentioned. “When I see them engage with children at Vet Fest, I see a spark light within them that I believe helps remind them why they’re putting in their time and effort toward becoming a DVM.”

No private pets will likely be allowed at Vet Fest. For extra info on scheduled occasions, parking and extra, go to vetmed.auburn.edu/occasions/vetfest. The College of Veterinary Medicine is positioned at 1130 Wire Road in Auburn.