If animals have a secret spiritual community unto themselves that we humans don't know about — and it wouldn't surprise me — the sweet beasts have doubtlessly earmarked musician John Speziale for sainthood.

Indeed, on Sunday in Westerly's Knickerbocker Music Center, Speziale and a group of similarly animal-centric and musically excellent pals will host the 8th Annual Stand Up for Animals Rock & Roll Christmas Show. Mark Douglas Bernardo opens the program and Craig Edwards will make his way through the crowd as the Christmas Fiddler.

Also, the festivities feature Dancing Santa, Puppet Santa, a raffle, a dance contest, a full food menu and a cash bar.

Not bad: St. Nick AND Saint Speziale together on behalf of the four-pawed/hooved creatures we can't live without.

Please note: Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination (14 days past second shot) OR proof of negative COVID-19 PCR test received 72 hours before shows required.

Stand Up for Animals Rock & Roll Christmas Show, 7 p.m. Sunday, Knickerbocker Music Center, 35 Railroad Ave., Westerly; $15 donation; knickmusic.com, (401) 315-5070.