Nearly two dozen donkeys and mules will gather at Bishop’s Orchards on Saturday, May 2 for the seventh annual Bishop’s Orchards Donkey & Mule Show. With at least eight hometown animals, the other donkeys and mules come from all over Connecticut and Massachusetts.

“[This event is] unique, fun, family-friendly, and agricultural education,” said Erica Scranton of Bishop’s Orchards.

Throughout the event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., there will be adult and youth donkey and mule show classes, including halter, showmanship, ground driving, costume, coon jumping, riding, and obstacle. Exhibitors range in age from preschool to adult and include current and former FFA and 4H members.

The top six in each class will receive ribbons, while the highest point totals of the day can earn Grand Champion Donkey, Grand Champion Mule, Reserve Champion Donkey, and Reserve Champion Mule.

In addition to watching the show classes, there will be a wide variety of family entertainment, as well, including vendor booths, children’s activities, hayrides, donkey rides, wine tastings, the Sugar Cupcake Truck, and a concession stand with maple kettle corn, donuts, ice cream, sandwiches, and more.

Admission to the Kids’ Corner is $5, and children can jump in the moonbounce, ride along the tractor track, and play in the corn kingdom. There will also be face-painting ($8 for full face) and glitter tattoos ($5).

The Donkey and Mule Show began in 2008 when Kimberly Brockett and her family got their first two mammoth donkeys. After attending donkey and mule shows that summer as spectators, they exhibited their donkeys in their first show that fall.

“The shows were colorful, educational, and entertaining,” said Scranton. “She suggested that Bishop’s add a donkey and mule show to its annual day of offering Apple Blossom Hayrides to the community. The event has grown every year since.”