A summer gathering of our compassionate community, Hoedown is beloved for its renowned speaker lineups, music, dancing, the rare opportunity to camp at Farm Sanctuary, and quality time with our rescued animal residents. To keep our staff, community, and animals safe during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have not hosted a Hoedown Weekend since 2019. 

Thankfully, Hoedown 2024 was the celebration we’ve been waiting for, and our supporters and guests were delighted by the food and fun.

We kicked off the festivities on Friday, August 16 as we welcomed our devoted Friends of Hilda Club members for a special evening and vegan reception in thanks for their vital support of Farm Sanctuary’s mission.

Hilda Club guests savored plant-based dishes by Farm Sanctuary’s own Chef and Manager of Culinary Education and Cafe Operation, Gail Patak. These included eggplant scallops and chocolate ganache cheesecake bites paired with wines provided by Atwater Vineyards.

As the weekend began on Saturday, tents lined our sanctuary grounds as many attendees camped, spending two nights sleeping under the stars. Campers and all who joined in our activities enjoyed the beauty and joy of sanctuary, despite some gloomy weather at times.

Hoedown guests enjoyed open sanctuary time, spending magical moments with our farm animal residents and learning their stories of rescue and resilience.

Speakers from across the animal and vegan advocacy movement gave talks that inspired all. Attendees heard the moving words of Gene Baur and Ellen C. O’Connell (Farm Sanctuary), Jo-Anne McArthur (We Animals Media), Nate Salpeter (Sweet Farm Foundation), and many other influential activists.

Flavorful vegan food was enjoyed throughout the entire weekend, including vegan cheese provided by Treeline Cheese and dishes featuring delicious products by Parlor City Vegan and Beyond Meat, our Hoedown Champion Sponsor.

Of course, one of the most beloved parts of Hoedown – live music and dancing – was a hit once again.

Hoedown is not just a party. It’s a time to celebrate the joy of sanctuary and all that we are achieving together as a compassionate community. Everyone who purchased a ticket has helped strengthen our work for animals, people, and the planet.

Beyond Meat

VegOut

Vegan Grants

Treeline Vegan Cheese

Sarita Pabby

Heather Byrne