Current Press Releases

Celebrate Freedom with Rescued Pigs at Farm Sanctuary’s

Fourth of July Pignic 

Farm Sanctuary Welcomes Kids of All Ages for Free Tours, Food and Fun on Independence Day

Orland, Calif. – June 23, 2008 – This Independence Day, Farm Sanctuary, the largest rescue and refuge network for farm animals in North America, will welcome visitors to its shelter in Orland, California for its annual Fourth of July Pignic—a fun-filled day featuring free tours, family-friendly activities and delicious veggie food.  

At the Pignic, guests can show off their artistic ability while painting farm animal murals, watch playful pigs chow-down on yummy treats, and compete in a watermelon seed-spitting contest, as well as several other exciting games at the Veggie Olympics—all in celebration of farm animal freedom. Free shelter tours will also be given every hour, on the hour, from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. on which visitors can interact with farm animals and give belly rubs to rescued pigs—the stars of the event.   

“This event captures the true spirit of Independence Day,” explains Farm Sanctuary Education Director Matt Rice. “While we celebrate our freedoms as citizens of this great country our Pignics are a great way for visitors to see the freedom enjoyed by our rescued animal ambassadors.”

Two of the most charming creatures visitors will have the opportunity to meet at the Pignic are Maya and Rosa pigs, who practically fall over to have visitors rub their bellies. These two pigs were found rooting around the grounds of Farm Sanctuary which they now call home.

The Fourth of July Pignic will be held Friday, July 4 from 11a.m. to 4 p.m. at 19080 Newville Rd., Orland, Calif.

This all-ages event is free and open to the public. More information and directions can be found by calling 607-583-2225 ext. 221 or visiting farmsanctuary.org.

Farm Sanctuary is the nation's leading farm animal protection organization. Since incorporating in 1986, Farm Sanctuary has worked to expose and stop cruel practices of the "food animal" industry through research and investigations, legal and institutional reforms, public awareness projects, youth education, and direct rescue and refuge efforts. Farm Sanctuary shelters in Watkins Glen, N.Y., and Orland, Calif., provide lifelong care for hundreds of rescued animals, who have become ambassadors for farm animals everywhere by educating visitors about the realities of factory farming. Additional information can be found at farmsanctuary.org or by calling 607-583-2225.