The latest update to *Fields of Mistria* brings a delightful new addition to the game: the Animal Festival. This annual event not only adds a layer of fun but also showcases the hard work you've put into your farm animals. If you're eager to participate and perhaps win some prizes, here's a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of the Animal Festival.
How to Unlock the Animal Festival in Fields of Mistria
The Animal Festival is an annual event in *Fields of Mistria*, akin to other seasonal town festivities. If you miss it in one year due to in-game commitments or simply forget, don't worry—you'll get another chance the following year. The festival kicks off on the **10th day of the Winter season**, giving you plenty of time to prepare your animals. Make sure they are well-tended and in top condition to compete for the top prizes.
How to Win the Animal Festival in Fields of Mistria
The highlight of the Animal Festival is the contest where you can enter **up to two of your farm-raised animals**—one small (like chickens, ducks, or rabbits) and one large (like cows, alpacas, or sheep). Remember, only fully grown adults can participate.
How to Enter the Animal Festival Contest
To participate, head to the festival grounds in the town center and speak with **Josephine** at the front counter. She'll direct you to the two booths behind her where you can register your animals. Josephine will also share valuable tips on how to boost your score:
- **Animal Hearts**: The more hearts your animal has, the better your score. Increase hearts by petting or picking them up, feeding them, and allowing them outside on sunny days.
- **Rare Coat Colors**: Animals with unique coat colors, such as pink or blue, can earn you higher scores. Focus on breeding and caring for such animals to enhance your chances.
When ready, talk to **Terithia** at the left booth to enter your large animals, and **Landen** at the right booth for your small animals. Once you've made your selections, return to Josephine and tell her you're ready to **'start the judging'**.
All Prizes for the Animal Festival Contest
A cutscene will showcase the winners, starting with the small animal category. If you outscore Hayden's chicken Henrietta, you'll win the small animal bracket. The large animal category follows, and beating Hayden's cow Sunshine secures you the win in that bracket.
Your prizes will depend on your performance. Winning in your first year might be challenging due to the time needed to maximize your animals' heart gauges and to unlock rare animals through ranch-related story quests and farm upgrades. However, with consistent care and farm improvements year after year, securing the top spot becomes more achievable.
This guide wraps up everything you need to know about the *Fields of Mistria* Animal Festival. For more insights into the game, including how to explore the Deep Woods, be sure to check out our other content.
