Enjoy the festive season at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
Family Festive Weekend - Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 December
Put the twinkle in your tinsel at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary!
Looking for an affordable, family-friendly festive day out? Join us on
19 and 20 December
for a weekend packed with Christmas cheer.

From the magic of Santa’s Grotto and our Hee-Haw Prize Draw to peaceful winter walks and special moments with our donkeys, there’s something to delight visitors of every age. Discover the wonder that awaits...
Santa's Grotto with our donkeys!
The jolly man in red is making a return to our sanctuary, settling into his cosy grotto in one of our donkey barns. Surrounded by our friendly donkeys and team of cheerful elves, Santa will be ready to welcome families from 10.30am to 3pm on both days. Each child who visits will receive a special gift to take home.
- Affordable family price: £6 for one child, £10 for two children or £15 for three children. Price includes a goody bag.
- Book online to secure your slot. Don't panic if it's full up online - we've saved some places for bookings on the day. 
- Adults! There's no need to book yourself unless you would like a goody bag too. Children under 2 don't need to be booked unless you want them to receive a goody bag. The contents of the goody bags may not be suitable for very young children. 
Quiet Time Santa’s Grotto - Sunday 20 December, 10.00am to 10.30am
Perfect for families who prefer a quieter environment or just need a little extra time. These relaxed sessions offer all the festive magic at a gentler pace for visitors with additional needs.
- £6 for one child, £10 for two children or £15 for three children, including a goody bag. Advance online booking is essential.
Hee-Haw Prize Draw!
Amazing prizes to be won! Every ticket sold helps support the care and welfare of our rescued animals at our sanctuary, making your chance to win even more rewarding. Prizes to be confirmed.
Festive Music
Soak up the sounds of the season with performances from talented local choirs and musicians in our donkey barn.
Mulled Wine, Mince Pies and Festive Treats
Sip, savour and soak up the festive cheer with seasonal refreshments from our café.
FREE Reindeer Trail - throughout December
Set off on a festive adventure around our sanctuary! Search for Santa’s reindeer as you explore, then collect a sweet treat once you’ve completed the trail.
Christmas shopping
Pick up those last-minute gifts in our shop, packed with unique finds that are sure to bring a smile on Christmas morning. You can also pick up gifts online.
Don’t forget! There are over 100 donkeys, ponies, Joss the horse, and Phoenix the mule waiting to meet you too.
Our Festive Weekend promises to be a wonderful festive weekend for everyone - full of seasonal warmth and magic for the whole family.
The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is open from 10am to 4pm throughout our Festive Weekend. Entry and parking are free. Donations are always welcome and help us continue caring for our animals.
Christmas and New Year Opening Times
We are closed to visitors on
December 25 and 26, 2026. We will be closing at
3pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve as per our winter opening hours.
We are open the rest of the Christmas period including New Year's Day, do come and see your adopted donkey and treat yourself to a warming drink and snack in the café!
Christmas Day Community Café
Our café will be open from 10am to 12pm on Christmas Day, Thursday 25 December for a complimentary cuppa, mince pie and a chat. Whether you're out for a walk or on your own this Christmas, please do come and join us. The sanctuary itself will not be open; there will be no access to our donkeys or the footpaths around the site. 
