Carl's 5K and FallFest
Oct
18
10:00 AM10:00

Carl's 5K and FallFest

Please join us in celebrating Carl’s life and legacy at Carl’s 5K on October 18, 2025 at 10am!! 

Carl was the first cow ever rescued by Iowa Farm Sanctuary.  At two days old, he was taken to a veal sale, as male dairy cows are deemed useless since they cannot produce milk. His tiny body had the number 527 glued to his body.  Too weak to even stand, his surrender was negotiated.  He was so frail and weak that the odds of survival were not in his favor. 

Through relentless care and love, Carl went on to not only survive, but thrive at IFS.  He grew into a spunky, rambunctious Holstein, who frequented the attention of volunteers and visitors alike. IFS began celebrating his October birthday with the community, as an opportunity to share his story and for an end-of-season fundraiser. His birthday parties were unforgettable: Imagine 250 people singing to a cow, presenting him a cake and him soaking it all in! He knew that day was ALL about him and he literally was the life of the party!  We suddenly lost Carl in 2021 to a hidden illness that he contracted due to being born into the dairy industry, and life will never be the same again without him here. Celebrating Carl’s birthday has always been one of Iowa Farm Sanctuary’s most cherished traditions. This year would have been Carl’s 9th birthday, but now we celebrate his legacy instead. 

Carl’s 5K will be unlike any race you’ve ever participated in before, as the course will wind around our beautiful sanctuary grounds—our rescued residents cheering you on as you go! You get a 360 degree tour of the sanctuary as part of our course! After you cross the finish line, you can visit with your favorite residents and stroll. Did we mention Cinnaholic will also be waiting at the finish line for you?!

ALL runners and walkers are welcome!  You do not have to be athletic or fast-- EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Trust us: This event is enjoyed by runners, walkers and strollers alike! We’re also offering a self-timed virtual option for those who cannot join us in person! Registration (both in-person and virtual) includes an exclusive t-shirt, bib, and medal! 

2nd Annual Fall Festival: Carl's celebration has expanded beyond the run/walk! Bring your friends, family, kiddos and join us for pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls, cider and painting pumpkins! Stick around after the race or skip the race and just join us for the festivities!!  Carl loved a good party and we're ready to keep the fun rolling!

We hope you’ll join us in celebration and participation at Carl's 5K and Fall Fest!

Please note: Participants who register after September 22, 2025 will receive their entry, bib, medal and cool race packet. Shirts are not available or included.

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Camp IFS 2025
Jul
26
to Jul 27

Camp IFS 2025

  • Iowa Farm Sanctuary (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Mark your calendars for July 26-27! We're thrilled to invite you to Camp IFS 2025, where you can experience the magic of summer camping alongside our beloved rescued residents! Join us for a weekend filled with joy, connection, and adventure!

This year’s campout is a cherished tradition, offering a relaxed and restorative atmosphere full of cow cuddles, s’mores and wonderful human company. Plus, wake up to a special sunrise yoga session INSIDE our Misfit Pasture!

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Macrame for Mom
May
10
2:00 PM14:00

Macrame for Mom

Join us at the sanctuary on May 10th for a special event: “Macrame for Mom”! This is the perfect opportunity to create a heartfelt gift for Mother’s Day or for anyone you cherish. Heck, bring your mom along for a day of creativity and connection! During this delightful workshop, you’ll learn the art of macrame while enjoying the serene environment of the sanctuary. We’ll provide all the necessary materials, along with a variety of beautiful plants to choose from. For just $35, you’ll not only walk away with your own handmade hanging plant but also support our rescued residents in the process. Why settle for a store-bought gift when you can craft something unique and meaningful? Reserve your spot today, and let’s make something special together! Advance ticket purchase required.

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Iowa Farm Sanctuary's Inaugural Gala
Mar
1
5:30 PM17:30

Iowa Farm Sanctuary's Inaugural Gala

Save the Date for Iowa Farm Sanctuary’s Inaugural Gala!

Step into an evening of elegance and empathy at Iowa Farm Sanctuary’s first-ever gala! Join us on Saturday, March 1st, 2025, at the stunning Wilson’s Ciderhouse and Venue in Iowa City for a night to remember.

Celebrate the spirit of community and compassion with a delightful cocktail hour, a gourmet vegan dinner, and captivating live art entertainment by the renowned Amy Burkman. Engage in exciting silent and live auctions, and then be inspired by impactful stories of rescue and resilience throughout the evening.

This is a 21+ event, and formal or cocktail attire is requested, adding a touch of sophistication to the evening.

Your support fuels the daily care and medical needs of the 140+ incredible residents who call Iowa Farm Sanctuary home. Together, we’ll ensure this sanctuary continues to be a beacon of hope and a vital resource for both humans and animals in Johnson County and beyond.

Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference—reserve your spot for this meaningful and memorable event!

RESERVE YOUR SEATS HERE

Interested in sponsoring this event as a business? Click here!

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Deck the Stalls: Holiday Open House
Dec
14
6:00 PM18:00

Deck the Stalls: Holiday Open House

**Join Us for Deck the Stalls: Our Holiday Open House**

On Saturday, December 14th from 6-8pm, come shop our brand-new merchandise, enjoy delicious refreshments, and help us spread some holiday cheer! Bring a gift to place under our tree (see our wishlist here) for our rescued residents, and take a cozy tour of our misfit barn, where all the animals will be snuggled in for bed.

**Shop for a cause** and support our mission while finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Your contributions make a difference in the lives of our animals! 

Mark your calendar and bring your friends and family for a festive evening filled with joy, shopping, and community spirit. 

We can’t wait to celebrate the season with you! Hope to see you there!

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