The Donkey Sanctuary’s Carols by Candlelight service returns as a live event at its international headquarters in Sidmouth, Devon on Friday 9 December.
Thousands of candles will illuminate the heart of the Sidmouth sanctuary, creating a truly magical festive atmosphere for the hour-long service which commences at 6.30pm.
The event, which for the past two years has been held virtually due to the pandemic, includes traditional Christmas Carols from the Exeter Railway Band, Christmas readings, and performances by The Donkey Sanctuary choir, all surrounded by the sanctuary’s resident donkeys.
The onsite restaurant The Kitchen will be open throughout providing hot food and drinks, and The Gift Shop will also be open, providing the perfect excuse to do some Christmas shopping.
For those who are unable to visit the sanctuary in person, people will be able to watch the service from the comfort of their own homes, as the event will be also broadcast live online via the award-winning ‘Sanctuary From Your Sofa’ on The Donkey Sanctuary’s website.
John Crouch, Visitor Engagement Manager said: “We are pleased to be able to welcome visitors back to our wonderful Carols by Candlelight event.
“We hope all that everyone will join us, either in person or online, and have a truly memorable evening.”
Tickets for Carols by Candlelight are now available for booking, and cost £5 per vehicle. There is no limit on the number of people per vehicle.
To ensure that visitors can arrive and depart safely on the evening, only the main visitor car park will be open, which limits the number of vehicles that can be accommodated to 100.
For interviews, images and information please contact The Donkey Sanctuary press office on 01395 573124 or 07870 849563 (including out of hours) or send an email.
The Donkey Sanctuary is the world's largest equine welfare charity. Our vision is a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering and their contribution to humanity is fully valued. We run 10 sanctuaries around the UK and Europe, giving lifelong care to more than 7,000 donkeys and mules. Our hospital treats sick donkeys and trains vets both nationwide and worldwide. Our donkey-facilitated learning programme helps vulnerable children and adults develop life skills by connecting with donkeys on an emotional and physical level. The charity operates programmes worldwide for animals working in agriculture, industry and transportation, and those used in the production of meat and skin.
Please note that the name ‘The Donkey Sanctuary’ should not be abbreviated to ‘Donkey Sanctuary’, and the word ‘The’ should always appear with a capital ‘T’ as above.