Thanksgiving weekend is about to get a lot wilder at Lions Tigers & Bears, where rescued animals will enjoy a holiday feast of their own during the sanctuary’s annual Turkey Bash, returning Friday, Nov. 28, and Saturday, Nov. 29.
This popular, family-friendly event invites guests to watch as the sanctuary’s lions, tigers, bears, and other rescued residents pounce, play, and chow down on Thanksgiving-themed treats. From stuffed pumpkins for the bears to turkey enrichments for the big cats, each dish is specially crafted to engage the animals’ senses and support their well-being.
“The Turkey Bash began as a fun and meaningful way to celebrate the holiday season with our animal family and community,” said Bobbi Brink, founder and director of Lions Tigers & Bears.
“Every Thanksgiving, while people everywhere gather around the table, we wanted to give our rescued animals a feast of their own—one that celebrates their second chance at life.”
Since its early days as a small staff enrichment activity, Turkey Bash has grown into one of the sanctuary’s most beloved traditions, drawing hundreds of visitors each year. Guests are encouraged to bring cameras to capture the joyful scenes as animals explore, play, and feast on their seasonal surprises.
“Our animal care team starts planning weeks in advance,” Brink said. “Everything is prepared with care and love to make sure the animals enjoy both the flavors and the fun of discovery.”
Each enrichment item is made using animal-safe ingredients like fresh produce, meat, and festive scents. Beyond the fun, the event also raises funds to support the lifelong care of the sanctuary’s more than 60 rescued animals—many of whom were saved from neglect, abuse, or exploitation.
“Events like the Turkey Bash help raise critical funds and awareness for our mission,” Brink said. “Every ticket, donation, and purchase directly supports the daily care of our animals, from food and veterinary care to habitat maintenance.” Brink recalled one particularly heartwarming moment from a past celebration that reminded her why this event matters so deeply.
“A mother brought her young son, who has special needs. As we watched the animals together, his face lit up—he laughed, clapped, and smiled the entire time. His mother began to cry, so happy to see her son so engaged. It was a beautiful reminder that people help animals, and animals help people. The healing goes both ways.”
For first-time visitors, the experience is fun and educational. Guests can tour the sanctuary, hear stories of each animal’s rescue, and see firsthand how compassion transforms lives.
“Expect laughter, learning, and a whole lot of heart,” Brink said.
Visitors are also encouraged to support the Wishlist Program, which provides everyday supplies for animal care—everything from produce and cleaning tools to enrichment toys.
“Our animals rely 100% on donations,” Brink said. “Every single item helps us stretch our resources and ensures that our residents receive the highest level of care.”
The Turkey Bash begins at 10 a.m. each day and takes place rain or shine. Space is limited, and early reservations are recommended.
Donation Information: Members: $30 per adult / $15 per child (12 & under) Non-Members: $60 per adult / $35 per child (12 & under) Feed with a Keeper: Non-Members: $160 per adult Members: $130 per adult (Must be 18 or older to participate.)
All proceeds benefit Lions Tigers & Bears and its mission to rescue and care for abused and abandoned exotic animals.
Founded in 2002, the Alpine based nonprofit is the only sanctuary in Southern California accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) and the American Sanctuary Association (ASA). Located on a 142-acre ranch, the facility provides natural habitats, veterinary care, and education programs that promote compassionate wildlife stewardship.
For more information, to view the Wishlist, or to reserve tickets, visit lionstigersandbears. org.
