All the charm of a horse, but a little more down to earth.
Eyeore, Benjamin from Animal Farm, that one from Shrek… everyone loves the humble donkey. Donkeys have been helping humans out for at least 5000 years. I think that deserves a festival, don’t you?
Happening on Sunday, January 21 at Wesburn Park in the Yarra Ranges, the Donkey Festival will pay tribute to the mighty beast.
Donkey Festival 2024
- The beloved event will be happening for the first time since 2015
- It’ll celebrate donkeys in almost every way imaginable, from games to costume contests, races, rides, music and more
- It is hosted by The Donkey Shop
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Despite what popular culture may have led us to believe, donkeys are actually extremely talented creatures. Sure, they’re capable of carrying heavy loads for long distances (which is what they’re most often tasked with) but they can do a lot of other cool stuff as well.
All of their many skills will be on display at the Donkey Festival. There will be donkey rides, donkey races, donkey obstacle courses and donkey fancy-dress competitions. There will also be an educational element hosted by vets and trainers where people can learn a little more about their new favourite animal.
On top of all of that, they’re planning to have live music, sideshows, markets, carnival games, a classic car display and some delicious eats as well. The event will be hosted by The Donkey Shop, Victoria’s donkey care epicentre.
“The aim of the festival is to introduce the world to donkeys, to educate people about donkeys, to educate donkey owners about how to care for their donkeys, to demonstrate the versatility of donkeys and to get people to bring their donkeys out of the paddock and engage their brains into doing activities,” Donkey Show owner and festival organiser Linda Jay told Star Mail.
For more on the Yarra Ranges Donkey Festival, head here.
