Family Festive Weekend at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
Enjoy Christmas at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
Christmas is on the way - let the magic start at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary!
Looking for
affordable, family-friendly Christmas fun on the Isle of Wight? Join us at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary this December for a wonderful festive experience, peaceful winter walks and special moments with our donkeys. Our Festive Weekend is the perfect Christmas day out for families of all ages.
19 and 20 December - Santa’s Grotto with our donkeys!
Celebrate Christmas at one of the most unique festive events on the Isle of Wight. Visit Santa in his cosy grotto, tucked inside the donkey barn and surrounded by our friendly donkeys and cheery elves.
Santa will be meeting families
from 10:30am to 3pm both days. Every child receives a gift to take home.
- Affordable family price: from just £5 per child, 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 on unless you want to get a goody bag. Children under 2 don't need to be booked on 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
A calmer, but still magical Santa experience — ideal for families who prefer a quieter environment or who need a bit more time.
From £5 per person, includes goodie bag. Must be booked in advance.
Even more fun during our Festive Weekend:
Free Reindeer Trail
Explore the sanctuary, search for Santa’s reindeers and collect a sweet treat at the end. Free and open throughout December.
Seasonal joy at the sanctuary
Soak up the Christmas spirit with festive music, mulled wine, mince pies and browse our range of unique Christmas gifts in the shop.
With over 100 donkeys, ponies, Joss the horse and Phoenix the mule to meet, this promises to be a wonderful festive weekend for everyone – full of seasonal warmth and magic.
The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is open from 10am to 4pm throughout our Festive Weekend.
The details:
- Santa’s Grotto at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary will be open Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 December from 10.30am to 3.30pm.
- Entry to see Santa is £6 for one child, £10 for two children or £15 for three children. Online booking is available. There will also be places on the day, subject to availability.
- 'Quiet Time Santa's Grotto' will be available on Sunday 20 December from 10am to 10.30am for visitors with additional needs. These slots can only be booked online.

See our full terms and conditions for the event.
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