Indraloka’s Beloved ThanksLiving Returns November 7

Thanksgiving looks a little different at Indraloka. There are turkeys. There is a feast. There are friends and family gathered around tables. But at ThanksLiving, the turkeys aren’t on the table. They’re the guests of honor.

On Saturday, November 7, Indraloka will welcome more than 200 guests to its nearly 100-acre sanctuary in Dalton for its annual ThanksLiving celebration, a beloved Northeastern Pennsylvania tradition that brings people together for an unforgettable day of compassion, connection and, of course, incredible food. With the event now just under a month away, tickets are on sale and guests are encouraged to reserve their seats soon.

“ThanksLiving asks us to imagine what the holiday season can look like when gratitude extends to every living being,” said Dr. Indra Lahiri, founder of Indraloka. “It is joyful, it is delicious, and it is unlike anything else. But what makes the day so special is watching people connect—with the animals, with one another, and with the idea that each of us can help create a kinder world.”

One of the most anticipated moments of the day is Indraloka’s Feast for the Birds, when the sanctuary’s rescued turkeys and other rescued birds enjoy a Thanksgiving feast prepared especially for them.

Then it’s the humans’ turn. Guests will enjoy a gourmet plant-based meal provided by Parlor City Vegan, live music, a massive raffle featuring more than 100 items, and time to experience the sanctuary that hundreds of rescued farm animals call home.

ThanksLiving has grown since its beginnings in 2010 into Pennsylvania’s largest event of its kind, drawing guests from across the region and around the country. More than 100 businesses and organizations contribute products, raffle items and financial support to help bring the celebration to life each year.

But the impact of ThanksLiving continues long after the last guest goes home. Proceeds help support Indraloka’s work throughout the year, including lifelong sanctuary for rescued farm animals, affordable veterinary care through the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic, educational programs for children and families, and programs designed to promote healing, wellness and resilience throughout the community.

This year alone, that work has included welcoming 43 hens rescued from a commercial egg farm, where thousands of birds faced slaughter after the farm lost its egg-production contract.

Many arrived at Indraloka suffering from feather loss, injuries, chronic stress and untreated medical conditions. While several have passed, most are discovering something entirely new: what it means to live for themselves.

On November 7, guests at ThanksLiving will have an opportunity to celebrate them—and the hundreds of other rescued animals whose second chances are made possible by the Indraloka community.

Tickets are available now, and advance purchase is required. With ThanksLiving traditionally welcoming approximately 200 guests, those hoping to attend are encouraged not to wait.

“Every year we sell out,” said Robin Olson, Indraloka’s Director of Development. “And every year, it happens earlier and earlier. If you’ve never been, this is the year to come.”