Mrs. Claus has a rather unusual group on her nice list this year, and visitors to West Place Animal Sanctuary can meet them during a Thanksgiving weekend tradition that puts rescued farm animals at the center of the holiday festivities.
The Tiverton sanctuary brings back its Holiday Shop & Stroll November 27-28, with a new format that gives visitors more ways to explore the eight-acre property. For its final public visitor weekend of 2026, West Place will offer 24 guided tours across two days, each introducing guests to the sanctuary's rescued residents, including its newest arrival, Ivessa the Friesian horse.
Rather than following the same route, visitors can choose from seven tour experiences based on their interests. Mrs. Claus will lead holiday-themed visits featuring the animals' naughty and nice lists, while the appropriately named Animalmaxxing tour focuses on spending more time with the rescues, particularly for returning visitors and families with children.
Those curious about the sanctuary's history can join founder and executive director Wendy Taylor for an exclusive Executive Tour of the 151-year-old Dr. Samuel West Place. Other options explore the property's gardens and greenhouse, where volunteers cultivate food, flowers, and herbs, or venture into wine and beer production with West Place Farmbrew's vintner and brewmeister.
First-time guests can get acquainted with the sanctuary through its classic interactive Full Tour, while electric-vehicle Driving Tours offer panoramic views of the grounds.
Holiday shopping also gets its turn in the spotlight. The sanctuary's gift shop will hold its first holiday sale, offering discounts of 10–50 percent on select artwork, jewelry, apparel, and other gifts for animal lovers.
Whether they're returning to visit familiar faces or meeting Ivessa for the first time, the weekend offers one last opportunity this year to get to know the animals and the people caring for them. With limited spots available on each tour, visitors should choose their preferred experience in advance. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit westplace.org.
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