October 28, 2025
By: Jade Garrett – SPCA Albrecht Center Events & Fundraising Manager

Get ready to kick off your Thanksgiving with friends, family, and community at the 16th annual Bloodies & Bagels, returning to the grounds of the Aiken County Historical Museum on Thursday, November 27th, from 9:30–11:30 a.m. This beloved local tradition offers a morning full of delicious bagels, handcrafted Bloody Marys, live music, and festive holiday cheer.

This year, the SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare has the honor of being the event’s beneficiary. All proceeds and donations from the morning will directly support our work caring for homeless, neglected, and abandoned pets across Aiken and the surrounding community.

Bloodies & Bagels isn’t just a fun social gathering, it’s an opportunity for the community to come together for a shared purpose. Attendees can enjoy good food, great drinks, and live entertainment, all while supporting the animals in our care. This year, in addition to the lively festivities, guests will have the chance to meet a few of our adoptable shelter pets.

Founded in 1935 as a rescue for overburdened mules, our mission has grown to include rescuing companion animals, providing low-cost veterinary care, advocating for animal welfare, and connecting pets with loving forever homes.

Funds raised through Bloodies & Bagels go directly to support our shelter operations, from intake and medical care to daily enrichment and adoption services. Each animal that comes through our doors may require anything from routine vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery to behavioral support, rehabilitation, or extended care. Your support ensures we can meet the growing demand, especially during times of high intake.

Our success as a no-kill shelter with a 94% save rate (officially recognized by the Best Friends Animal Society in 2024) would not be possible without our dedicated staff, volunteers, board, donors, and the broader community. Events like Bloodies & Bagels allow us to raise funds, spread awareness about our adoptable pets, and make space for the next animal in need. Every ticket purchased and every donation made helps us continue our mission of giving animals a second chance at life and a loving home.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to the tradition, Bloodies & Bagels is a celebration for everyone. Tickets are $10 and available online. The Aiken County Historical Museum is located at 433 Newberry St. Bring your friends, bring your family, and start your Thanksgiving morning supporting pets who need a loving hand and a community that cares.

 

 

Jade Garrett is the Events & Fundraising Manager for the SPCA Albrecht Center in Aiken, SC. She is a seasoned marketing professional who found her way to the shelter in the fall of 2023. With a lifelong passion for animal welfare, she is excited to continue making a difference in the lives of homeless animals in our community for many years to come.