4 days ago
Craft crews for rescues
COME for the tails, stay for the ales and help make a difference one paw at a time.
Ales for Tails, Durban's much-loved animal charity festival is back with a jam-packed programme of activities, live entertainment, and local flavour. This event which promises a full day (and night) of joy for the whole family at the Shongweni Club grounds on Saturday, August 2.
The event supports a variety of animal charities, from shelters and sterilisation programmes to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation groups. The 2024 event raised just under R200 000, and this year organisers are aiming higher, thanks to community support, dedicated volunteers, and local sponsors like Ideal Pet Food.
'It will bring together animal lovers, music fans, craft drink connoisseurs, and families for a cause that matters. Every ticket sold and every drink poured goes toward helping a dozen local animal welfare groups continue their vital work — from sterilisation and rescue to education and rehabilitation,' said Ales for Tails organiser Warren Eades.
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He said the day will be filled with fun activities for all ages and energy levels.
'Adventurous guests can take on the ever-popular mechanical bull ride, while those after some downtime can head to the Pamper Corner for massages and mini-manicures — all hosted by volunteers, with proceeds going to animal charities.
'You'll also find interactive games, creative stations, hands-on experiences, and unique photo ops scattered throughout the venue. Whether you're getting your nails done, challenging your friends to a round of foosball or enjoying the dress-up photo booth, there's always something happening around every corner.'
Families with little ones will love the Kids Zone, a fully staffed and secure area with jumping castles, face painting, art corners, games, and more.
'One of Ales for Tails' biggest attractions is its stellar line-up of craft breweries, distilleries, and winemakers, offering everything from ice-cold beers and local gins to on-tap cocktails and boutique wines.'
Also read: Rescue organisation receives generous donation
This year, Eades said home brewers from around SA have sponsored 92 unique brews, available exclusively to Top Dog VIP ticket-holders.
'These lucky guests will get to taste and vote for their favourites, helping to crown the 2025 Ales for Tails Home Brew Champion. General Cool Cat ticket-holders will be able to purchase a wide variety of drinks directly from breweries, distilleries, and bars on site, supporting passionate local producers with every sip.'
Dogs are more than welcome at Ales for Tails — they're part of the family, after all!
The event runs from 11:00 till late. Tickets are available online at Limited tickets will be available at the gate; R30 cash per parking at the gate
Benefiting organisations:
. Coastal Horse Care
· CROW – Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife
· Giant's Cup Animal Welfare
· KZN Valley Dogs
· Mazarat Animal Rescue
· Mitchell park paws
· Pet Rescue Isipingo
· Project Rhino
· Sables Creatures
· Stray Paws SA
· The Feline Connection
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