A spectacular drone show will light up the skies above the Isle of Wight this September as Wildheart Animal Sanctuary hosts the biggest event of its 50th anniversary year, featuring live entertainment, animal experiences and family-friendly activities.
The flagship celebration will take place on Saturday 19th September between 17:00 and 20:30, with the Sandown sanctuary transformed into a festival-style venue in support of its rescue and conservation work.
Visitors can enjoy live acoustic music from Ruby, performances by Melodic Choir, bubble displays from The Lovely Bubbly Show, glitter face painting, animal talks and feeds, and roaming entertainment from The New Carnival Company.
A cocktail bar, barbecue and local food stalls will also be on offer before the evening concludes with a Wildheart-themed drone show by LumaNation.
The event is the centrepiece of the Sanctuary’s 50th anniversary celebrations, marking 5 decades of caring for animals on the Isle of Wight while raising vital funds to support its work rescuing and providing lifelong care for animals in need.
Lawrence Bates, CEO of Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, has said:
“As we celebrate 50 years of the Sanctuary, we wanted to create something truly special for our community, supporters and visitors. This event is our biggest celebration of the year and an opportunity to come together for an unforgettable evening at the Sanctuary.
Article continues below this advertisement “From live entertainment and animal experiences to the spectacular drone show finale, there really is something for everyone. Most importantly, every ticket purchased helps support our rescue work and the animals that call Wildheart home.”
Originally opened as Sandown Zoo in 1976, Wildheart Animal Sanctuary has grown into one of the UK’s leading animal rescue sanctuaries, caring for rescued lions, tigers, bears and primates while inspiring visitors to help protect wildlife and the natural world.
Organisers are encouraging Islanders and visitors to book early, with demand expected to be high for what is set to be one of the Isle of Wight’s standout family events this autumn.
The Wildheart 50th Anniversary Celebration takes place on Saturday 19th September from 17:00 until 20:30. Tickets cost £16.50 for adults and £13.50 for children, with under-3s admitted free. More information and tickets are available via the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary website.
