The latest update to *Fields of Mistria* brings exciting new activities and features, including the much-anticipated Animal Festival. This event not only adds to the fun but also offers your farm-raised animals a chance to shine. If you're eager to participate, here's a comprehensive guide on how to engage with the Animal Festival and everything it involves.
How to Unlock the Animal Festival in Fields of Mistria
Screenshot by The Escapist
The Animal Festival in *Fields of Mistria* is an annual event, similar to other seasonal town festivities. If you miss it one year due to in-game obligations or forgetfulness, don't worry—you can always catch it the following year. The festival kicks off on the **10th day of the Winter season**, giving you plenty of time to prepare your animals, depending on your current position in the seasonal cycle. Ensuring your animals are in top condition is crucial if you aim to win the top prize.
How to Win the Animal Festival in Fields of Mistria
Screenshot by The Escapist
The highlight of the Animal Festival is the main competition, where you can enter **up to two of your farm-raised animals** to compete for prizes. You can select **one small animal** (like chickens, ducks, or rabbits) and **one large animal** (such as cows, alpacas, or sheep). Remember, only fully grown adults can participate in the contest.
How to Enter the Animal Festival Contest
To join the competition, make your way to the festival grounds in the town center and speak to **Josephine** at the front counter. She'll guide you to the two booths behind her where you can enter your animals. Josephine will share two key tips that can influence your score:
- **The more hearts your chosen animal has accrued, the higher your score will be.** You can boost your animal's hearts by petting or picking them up, feeding them well, and allowing them time outdoors on sunny days.
- **The rarity of your animal’s coat color** can also elevate your score. Animals with unique colors like pink or blue will have a better chance at a higher score if well-cared for.
Screenshot by The Escapist
When you're ready, talk to **Terithia** at the left booth to enter your large animals. A menu will display which of your animals qualify. Then, speak to **Landen** at the right booth to enter your small animals. Once you've made your selections, return to Josephine and let her know you're ready to **‘start the judging’**.
All Prizes for the Animal Festival Contest
Screenshot by The Escapist
A cutscene will follow, announcing the winners of the small animal category first, from third to first place. If you surpass Hayden’s chicken Henrietta, you'll claim the top spot in this category. The scene then shifts to the large animal category, where beating Hayden’s cow Sunshine secures you the first place in that bracket.
At the conclusion of the judging, you'll receive a list of prizes based on your performance. **Competing in your first year can be challenging due to the time required to fully nurture your animals and complete necessary ranch-related quests and upgrades.** These upgrades are essential for unlocking rare animals and unique coat styles.
With consistent care and focus on enhancing your farm to its full potential, your chances of winning the coveted gold crown at the Animal Festival increase significantly.
This concludes our guide to the *Fields of Mistria* Animal Festival. For more tips and guides, be sure to explore the rest of our content, including how to access the Deep Woods.
