Animal Defenders International is holding a “Home for the Holidays Party” on Sunday, Dec. 8, from 6 to 9 p.m. at El Cid on Sunset Boulevard.

The event will raise funds for a program with the goal of getting ex-circus big cats in Guatemala transported to animal sanctuaries in South Africa. Banning the use of animals in circuses in 2017, the government of Guatemala invited ADI to help enforce the law. Having successfully completed similar missions in Bolivia, Colombia and Peru, ADI launched “Operation Liberty” in May 2018 and established a temporary rescue center in Guatemala to care for 21 big cats confiscated from circuses.

On Nov.  25, the first three tigers were moved to Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, Florida, and ADI is currently in the process of moving the remaining big cats to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary in South Africa.

ADI president Jan Creamer and vice president Tim Phillips will host the event and discuss preparations for the upcoming lion and tiger relocation. They will also share the latest rescue stories, photos and videos from “Operation Liberty,” including a dramatic rescue that involved armed raids on circuses and an emergency evacuation of the temporary rescue center.

Guests will enjoy vegan hors d’oeuvres and special animal-themed cocktails will be available for purchase. The event will also feature a silent auction of artwork and holiday gifts for sale.

“We can’t wait to share the latest news from ‘Operation Liberty’ with our supporters and tell them all about preparations to get the big cats home for the holidays,” Creamer said. “It should be a really fun and festive event.”

Tickets are $75. El Cid is located at 4212 W. Sunset Blvd. For information, visit ad-international.org.