Each November, we gather at Farm Sanctuary to celebrate Thanksgiving without the cruelty, and with our rescued turkeys as the honored guests. In this milestone year, our 40th Celebration for the Turkeys promises to be one for the ages.
In 1986, the fledgling Farm Sanctuary hosted a unique Thanksgiving event—one where turkeys were not killed and eaten, but celebrated and honored. In the 40 years since, many farm animal sanctuaries and vegan organizations all over the world have adopted similar events to celebrate the season with compassion.
As we commemorate Farm Sanctuary’s 40th anniversary year, we’re honored to invite you to our Celebration for the Turkeys this November.
Jo-Anne McArthur/We Animals
Farm Sanctuary, Watkins Glen, NY
November 7, 2026
11 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET
Learn more and get tickets (save 20% when you register by Sept. 11)
Farm Sanctuary, Acton, CA
November 21, 2026
11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. PT
Learn more and get tickets (save 20% when you register by Sept. 25)
Need a good reason to join us this fall? You’re in luck, because we have seven!
Each year, around 46 million turkeys are slaughtered for Thanksgiving meals in the U.S. On a holiday that centers gratitude, cruelty and killing should have no place at the table. Thankfully, Farm Sanctuary offers a peaceful alternative—one where turkeys are the guests of honor: a Celebration for the Turkeys.
The Feeding of the Turkeys is the highlight of our celebration, bringing joy to turkeys and humans alike. You’ll watch as our resident turkeys race out of their barns and beeline for the bountiful feast that awaits them. Each year, our caregivers prepare a delicious, turkey-safe holiday buffet packed with seasonal produce like pumpkins, squash, and cranberries. The turkeys’ excited gobbles and peeps as they chow down will have you smiling ear to ear.
The turkeys aren’t the only ones who will be savoring a festive feast at the event. Guests will gather for their own compassionate holiday meal, complete with plant-based versions of Thanksgiving favorites, including meat-free main dishes like plant-based roasts, satisfying sides, and delightful desserts.
Whether you join us in New York or California, you’ll hear uplifting talks by our President and Co-founder, Gene Baur, and other inspiring speakers. Learn how Farm Sanctuary began with the rescue of Hilda the sheep, reflect on 40 years of progress for farm animals, and hear about our vision for the next four decades of rescue, education, and advocacy.
On any given day at Farm Sanctuary, our resident farm animals can be seen basking in the peace and freedom every living being deserves. Meeting these resilient survivors of factory farming has inspired countless sanctuary visitors to see all farm animals as individuals worthy of safety, autonomy, and full, happy lives.
During our Celebration for the Turkeys, you’ll have a rare opportunity to witness these individuals on a day even more joy-filled than usual. You will see (and hear!) our rescued residents expressing unbridled excitement as they engage in fun festivities like our pumpkin party for the pigs. Be sure to capture the happy snorts, bleats, and chirps and share your photos on social media!
Our annual Celebration for the Turkeys is a highlight of the year, bringing together kind, open-hearted people from all walks of life—from longtime dedicated activists to those who are newly curious about cruelty-free living. Whether you’re looking to make new friends, build community, or exchange recipes and ideas, you’ll find your people here.
What began as a single rescue has grown into a global movement of compassion for animals. As we celebrate this Thanksgiving, we also honor four decades of progress for turkeys and farm animals of every species. By joining us for our 40th Celebration for the Turkeys, you’ll be front and center as we step forward into our next chapter of rescue, education, and advocacy for farm animals.
We hope to celebrate with you this Thanksgiving season!
With great food, fall festivities, and unforgettable moments with our sanctuary residents, this year’s Celebration for the Turkeys is sure to be a day to remember, fueling you with inspiration and enthusiasm long after you leave the sanctuary.
Every ticket purchased directly supports Farm Sanctuary’s year-round efforts to create a world without factory farming. Join us this November—for the turkeys!
