Upcoming Events
Day with the Turkeys Tour & Explore
Our 'Day with the Turkeys' is a special day! Not only do you get to meet our amazing rescued animals, but you can participate in fun turkey-themed activities including trivia, reading to turkeys, arts & crafts, and more!
Vegan Cake Class: Learn How to Make a Momofuku Cake!
Momofuku cakes are widely admired for their flavor complexity, creative ingredients, and fun, playful aesthetic. Join cooking instructor Monika in learning how to make a vegan version of this viral sensation, and enjoy a slice at the conclusion of the class! This class will be an interactive demonstration held at the Pacifica Community Kitchen in Carrboro, NC.
Fall Vegan Potluck
Join us for our FREE fall vegan potluck at Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge in the Pavilion. Our potlucks are for both vegans and the vegan-curious! RSVP today!
2024 Benefit for the Animals
The Benefit for the Animals is our biggest fundraising of the year, and includes auctions, raffles, live music, vegan food, games, and more!
Halloween Tour & Explore
Our Halloween Tour & Explore is a special day! Not only do you get to meet our amazing rescued animals, but you can participate in fun activities including vegan trick-or-treating, costumes, pumpkin carving, and more!
Sketching with Goats - Art Class Series
Join us for Sketching with Goats, a free class taught by our 2024 Artist in Residence Vera Eshelman!
Sketching with Goats - Art Class Series
Join us for Sketching with Goats, a free class taught by our 2024 Artist in Residence Vera Eshelman!
Who counts morally? An introduction to Animal Ethics.
Join us for an engaging event at the Refuge Pavilion featuring a talk, a vegan lunch, and a mini-tour! A philosophy PhD student from UNC Chapel Hill will deliver an introductory talk on animal ethics, presented in partnership with Carolina Public Humanities. Enjoy a delicious free lunch from Pure Soul, and take a mini-tour to meet some of our animal residents.
Ethiopian Vegan Cooking Class
Date: Sunday, September 22, 2024 | Time: 11am to 2pm | Location: Refuge Pavilion, 7236 NC HWY 87 N, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Ticket Price: $30/ea.
At this engaging cooking class, instructor Tiru Kassie will guide you through a demonstration in vegan cuisine.
This unique class includes a mini-tour and a full meal, allowing you to savor the flavors of the dishes you’ll help create.
Cooking Instructor: Tiru Kassie
Head Chef & Owner of Vegan Community Kitchen
Tickets are limited! Reserve your spots now for this incredible class, all while supporting our wonderful animal residents at the Refuge!
Menu for this event:
Azifa (green lentil)
Spicy Red Lentil
Potato & Carrot Side Dish
Baklava Dessert
Tiru Kassie
Tiru was born and raised in Bahirdar, a small town in Ethiopia. With over 20 years of experience in the restaurant business, she has spent nearly half of her career specializing in vegan cuisine. In 2022, Tiru, alongside her family, founded Vegan Community Kitchen in Apex. The restaurant quickly gained recognition, winning the 2024 Maggy Award from Cary Magazine for Best Specialty Diet.
Before you purchase tickets, we require everyone attending to fill out and sign our online liability waiver.
TICKET PURCHASES ARE NOW CLOSED
September 2024 Tour & Explore Event at the Refuge!
Meet our 100+ farm animal residents and learn their rescue stories while touring our sanctuary grounds at your own pace!
Upon arrival, each group will receive a colorful, detailed map of the Refuge grounds. Wander at your own pace along several paths, meeting rescued goats, sheep, ducks, geese, chickens, turkeys, and cows!
Our knowledgeable Tour Guides will be stationed throughout the Refuge to tell enchanting stories of animal rescues, introducing you to each animal by name.
While visiting, don’t miss our serene curved brick animal memorial, unique architectural designs, and our beautiful Pavilion, where you can find Refuge merchandise for purchase and learn more about our mission. Reserve your tickets for this exciting experience today!
Arrive any time after 11 a.m. and tour at your own pace, but please note that the Refuge will close to visitors promptly at 2 p.m.
Please note that you will not receive physical or digital tickets, but we will have a list of ticket holders at check-in.
Check out this month’s vegan food vendors!
Additionally, with accessibility in mind, the Refuge is equipped with several disability accommodations, including an ADA-compliant porta potty in the parking lot, as well as a golf cart and driver that can drive up to 3 guests to all of the areas of interest during tours!
Purchase Tickets
Starting in 2024, we have updated our event processes and now require every event attendee and volunteer to sign our digital liability waiver prior to attending. Each adult must sign a separate waiver; all children within a group can be added to one single waiver.
ONLINE TICKETS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. YOU MAY PURCHASE TICKETS UPON ARRIVAL.
Q&A
Can I purchase tickets when I arrive?
We encourage you to buy tickets before arriving because they can sell out.
How do I get there, and where can I park?
Please park in our new Pavilion entrance and forest parking lot. Use 7432 NC-87N, Pittsboro, NC 27312 for GPS, and pull into a large gravel road next to the mailbox at 7432 (there, you will see a purple ‘PARKING’ sign).
Can I bring animal treats?
We will provide safe treats for you to offer to select animals. Please do not bring any food from home.
What should I bring?
There can be lots of mud during the event, so rubber boots or hiking boots are highly encouraged throughout the year. Remember to bring a water bottle, but please, no food. Bring your camera; visitors are encouraged to take photographs throughout the tour and share them on social media!
Is this experience good for kids?
Absolutely! Kids of all ages will enjoy walking the grounds and meeting the animal residents.
Do I need to purchase a ticket for my child?
Yes, children ages two and up require a ticket. Those younger than two are invited free of charge!
Can I bring my dog on the tour?
No, companion animals of any kind are not permitted on the grounds for safety purposes. We also do not allow companion animals to be left in vehicles. Please leave your pup at home.
If it rains, will the tour be rescheduled?
We hold our events rain or shine! Please come dressed appropriately for being outdoors and check the forecast before you leave home. If dangerous weather conditions develop, such as lightning, we will reschedule the tour with the option to reimburse you.
How can I become more involved with the Refuge?
We happily accept volunteers to help with animal care, cleaning, socializing, and other important duties! Learn more about volunteering opportunities: https://www.piedmontrefuge.org/volunteer.
I want to bring a donation; what does the Refuge need?
The Refuge is always in need of monetary donations. You can donate via check, cash, or card at our check-in/gift shop area. Other items we always need include paper towels, toilet paper, non-latex disposable gloves, raisins, fresh kale, and any Mrs. Meyers brand cleaning products.
What is the accessibility of the Refuge?
Our tours take place on gravel roads, grass pasture, and other terrains, which may not be completely wheelchair friendly. However, we have a golf cart that allows for transport around our grounds. Also, masks are currently not required outside, but we ask that you bring one indoors when visiting our restroom. Because of the size of our property, social distancing of 6 feet or more will always be possible. If you have any accessibility needs, we invite you to email us at info@piedmontrefuge.org to make arrangements before visiting.
Please email us at info@piedmontrefuge.org or call us at 919-533-4013 if you have any additional questions!
Fall Vegan Potluck at Southern Village Picnic Shelter
Join us for our FREE fall vegan potluck at Southern Village Picnic Shelter in Chapel Hill. Our potlucks are for both vegans and the vegan-curious! RSVP today!
August 2024 Tour & Explore Event at the Refuge!
Meet our 100+ farm animal residents and learn their rescue stories while touring our sanctuary grounds at your own pace!
Upon arrival, each group will receive a colorful, detailed map of the Refuge grounds. Wander at your own pace along several paths, meeting rescued goats, sheep, ducks, geese, chickens, turkeys, and cows!
Our knowledgeable Tour Guides will be stationed throughout the Refuge to tell enchanting stories of animal rescues, introducing you to each animal by name.
While visiting, don’t miss our serene curved brick animal memorial, unique architectural designs, and our beautiful Pavilion, where you can find Refuge merchandise for purchase and learn more about our mission. Reserve your tickets for this exciting experience today!
Arrive any time after 11 a.m. and tour at your own pace, but please note that the Refuge will close to visitors promptly at 2 p.m.
Please note that you will not receive physical or digital tickets, but we will have a list of ticket holders at check-in.
Online ticket sales are now closed. However, you can still purchase them at the sign-in table!
Check out this month’s vegan food vendors!
Additionally, with accessibility in mind, the Refuge is equipped with several disability accommodations, including an ADA-compliant porta potty in the parking lot, as well as a golf cart and driver that can drive up to 3 guests to all of the areas of interest during tours!
Purchase Tickets
Starting in 2024, we have updated our event processes and now require every event attendee and volunteer to sign our digital liability waiver prior to attending. Each adult must sign a separate waiver; all children within a group can be added to one single waiver.
Q&A
Can I purchase tickets when I arrive?
We encourage you to buy tickets before arriving because they can sell out.
How do I get there, and where can I park?
Please park in our new Pavilion entrance and forest parking lot. Use 7432 NC-87N, Pittsboro, NC 27312 for GPS, and pull into a large gravel road next to the mailbox at 7432 (there, you will see a purple ‘PARKING’ sign).
Can I bring animal treats?
We will provide safe treats for you to offer to select animals. Please do not bring any food from home.
What should I bring?
There can be lots of mud during the event, so rubber boots or hiking boots are highly encouraged throughout the year. Remember to bring a water bottle, but please, no food. Bring your camera; visitors are encouraged to take photographs throughout the tour and share them on social media!
Is this experience good for kids?
Absolutely! Kids of all ages will enjoy walking the grounds and meeting the animal residents.
Do I need to purchase a ticket for my child?
Yes, children ages two and up require a ticket. Those younger than two are invited free of charge!
Can I bring my dog on the tour?
No, companion animals of any kind are not permitted on the grounds for safety purposes. We also do not allow companion animals to be left in vehicles. Please leave your pup at home.
If it rains, will the tour be rescheduled?
We hold our events rain or shine! Please come dressed appropriately for being outdoors and check the forecast before you leave home. If dangerous weather conditions develop, such as lightning, we will reschedule the tour with the option to reimburse you.
How can I become more involved with the Refuge?
We happily accept volunteers to help with animal care, cleaning, socializing, and other important duties! Learn more about volunteering opportunities: https://www.piedmontrefuge.org/volunteer.
I want to bring a donation; what does the Refuge need?
The Refuge is always in need of monetary donations. You can donate via check, cash, or card at our check-in/gift shop area. Other items we always need include paper towels, toilet paper, non-latex disposable gloves, raisins, fresh kale, and any Mrs. Meyers brand cleaning products.
What is the accessibility of the Refuge?
Our tours take place on gravel roads, grass pasture, and other terrains, which may not be completely wheelchair friendly. However, we have a golf cart that allows for transport around our grounds. Also, masks are currently not required outside, but we ask that you bring one indoors when visiting our restroom. Because of the size of our property, social distancing of 6 feet or more will always be possible. If you have any accessibility needs, we invite you to email us at info@piedmontrefuge.org to make arrangements before visiting.
Please email us at info@piedmontrefuge.org or call us at 919-533-4013 if you have any additional questions!
Summer Vegan Potluck at the Refuge
Join us for our FREE summer vegan potluck at the Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge Pavilion. Our potlucks are for both vegans and the vegan-curious! RSVP today!
July 2024 Tour & Explore Event at the Refuge!
Vegan DONUTS. Vegan BURGERS. Vegan MAC & CHEESE. And visiting with the most wonderful animal residents you could ever imagine, at a place that cares for them for the rest of their lives? Yeah, we will see you there!
June 2024 Tour & Explore Event at the Refuge!
Our June Tour & Explore will be taking place just 5 days before summer starts, so the beauty of the Refuge should be in full force! This month, Season It Up Vegan & Cake Slayer will be here to take care of all your hunger needs!
Vegan Asian Cooking Demo
Date: Sunday, June 9, 2024 | Time: 11am to 2pm | Location: Refuge Pavilion, 7236 NC HWY 87 N, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Ticket Price: $30/ea.
At this exciting cooking demo, instructor Penny Pau will be giving a full demonstration of her Japchae recipe, a Korean stir fried noodle dish featuring fresh vegetables and BBQ sauced crumbles.
This amazing cooking demo includes a full meal for each guest. Additionally, there will be tips and recipe handouts for creating Chinese Cucumber Salad and Thai Mango Sticky Rice (dessert) at home. There will also be a mini-tour with the Refuge cow residents!
Tickets are limited! Reserve your spots now for this incredible class, all while supporting our wonderful animal residents at the Refuge!
Menu for this event:
Japchae (Korean Stir Fried Glass Noodles) with Vegetables and Korean BBQ sauced crumbles (Dojo Fresh)
Chinese Cucumber Salad
Thai Mango Sticky Rice (dessert)
Penny Pau
“While I’m a not a professional chef by any means, I’ve had the pleasure of cooking a few meals for friends and family as a mother and wife! Food has always been a bonding medium for me, ever since I was a kid, where my mom’s delicious cooking brought us all together at the table! This cooking class is inspired by familiar flavors at home and also by our family business, Dojo Fresh! My husband Oliver and I decided to embark on this new adventure with Dojo Fresh when our two kids were leaving the nest. We produce a shelf-stable protein mix (Seitan mix) that allows you to create your own crumbles, nuggets and patties – a versatile addition to your pantry and a great source of protein!”
Before you purchase tickets, we require everyone attending to fill out and sign our online liability waiver:
Vegan Bake Sale at Fullsteam Brewery!
Come and support the Refuge by buying delicious VEGAN baked goods at Fullsteam Brewery!
May 2024 Tour & Explore Event at the Refuge!
What’s better than walking around a peaceful farm animal sanctuary on a Saturday with your family/friends and seeing the most amazing animal residents around? Well, did we mention that Ethio-Indi Alkaline Vegan Cuisine & The Vegan Ice Cream Man will also be around to serve up delicious vegan foods?
Spring Vegan Potluck at the Refuge
Join us for our FREE spring vegan potluck at the Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge Pavilion. Our potlucks are for both vegans and the vegan-curious! RSVP today!
April 2024 Tour & Explore Event at the Refuge!
We are so excited for our April Tour & Explore! These events are family-friendly, and this one will feature two vegan food vendors, Stuffyman’s Vegan Stuff food truck and Cake Slayer!
March 2024 Tour & Explore Event at the Refuge!
Join us for our first Tour & Explore event of 2024! These events are family-friendly. This event will feature two vegan food vendors, Vegan Ice Cream Ma and Blu Tee Spoon food truck!
Latin-Inspired Valentine's Vegan Cooking Class
Bring your sweetie or best friend to this cooking class dedicated to celebrating love of all kinds! Silvana Rangel Duque will be teaching and cooking up Latin-inspired vegan food during this hands-on event that includes a full meal!
TVF Vegan Mac & Cheese Cook-Off!
We can’t wait to taste all of the delicious creations at this year’s Vegan Mac & Cheese Cook-Off! Are you ready to try them all? Or, maybe you’d like to be a competing chef?
Day with the Turkeys Tour & Explore at the Refuge
Join us for 'A Day with the Turkeys,' a special Tour & Explore event at the Refuge! Enjoy special turkey-themed activities, such as giving the turkeys special treat bowls, playing turkey trivia, and much more! Blackberry, Moonflower, Jason, and Joey are so excited that they can hardly stand it!
Fall Vegan Potluck at the Refuge
Join us for our fall FREE vegan potluck at the Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge Pavilion. Our potlucks are for both vegans and the vegan-curious! RSVP today!
Halloween Tour & Explore at the Refuge
Step into an enchanting world this October at the Refuge! Experience a bewitching tour, connect with nature, and uncover mesmerizing stories of our cherished animal residents. Enjoy thrilling activities like pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating, and also indulge in delicious vegan creations for purchase from Vegan Friendly Cooking that will send shivers down your spine. Embrace the spirit of Halloween, create treasured memories, and celebrate compassionate feasting in our mystical haven for individuals of all species.
Benefit for the Animals at The Royal Banquet
Join us for a special evening celebrating our life-saving work. Our Benefit for the Animals is a fun and fancy night that includes auctions, live music, special raffles, and a wide variety of vegan food and drink. Hear from our Founder as we look back at our past accomplishments and look ahead towards our future. Get dressed up and enjoy this party with a purpose at The Royal Banquet in Raleigh, NC. Seats are limited, so grab tickets today!
“Outside of Us” - Film Screening by Artist in Residence Sarah Fox!
Join us for a FREE screening (plus a tour of the Refuge!) of the film “Outside of Us” and an exhibition of the wearable paintings featured in the film, created by Artist in Residence Sarah Fox. In collaboration with many talented artists and animal advocates, the film is a fusion of dance, music, and painting inspired by the resilience and interpersonal relationships of the animal residents at the Refuge.
September Tour & Explore at the Refuge
Experience the tranquility of September at the Refuge! Join us for an immersive tour and exploration, where you'll connect with the sanctuary’s beauty and innovation and the animal residents' inspiring stories. Interact with the amazing animal residents while enjoying delicious vegan creations from Blu Tee Spoon and cooling down in the Summer heat with vegan treats from Vegan Ice Cream Man. It's a day of compassion, delightful cuisine, and creating beautiful memories.
Plant Forward into Fall Comfort Food
Hey foodies! Chef Kibri H. Everett of the famous Epic Vegan food truck will be teaching this upcoming cooking class! Are you drooling, yet?
August Tour & Explore at the Refuge!
The August tour here at the Refuge will be in the heart of Summer and teaming with life and excitement! Join us for an amazing, family-friendly time exploring the sanctuary, learning the rescue stories and interacting with the animal residents, and seeing firsthand the important work that is done here. And, while you’re here, don’t forget to purchase VEGAN “SEAFOOD” from the Oh My Cod food truck!