Festival of Hawks 2023

Join ERCA and the Holiday Beach Migration Observatory for hikes, workshops, hands on activities and much more at this Important Bird Area of Global Significance. Identified by Audubon Magazine as one of the top ten locations in all of North America for raptor watching, Festival of Hawks is a great event for birders from beginner to expert levels, and all outdoor enthusiasts.

Join experts from the Holiday Beach Migration Observatory for this amazing natural spectacle. Watch thousands of birds of prey flying overhead. Take in free programs hosted by local experts and see live hawks up close. Experts will conduct raptor and hummingbird banding and adoptions in support of their important species and populations monitoring efforts each year.  Free educational programs will complement the ongoing banding and live hawk display throughout the event. Local experts will share information on a wide range of birding and nature-related topics. These include:

• HBMO’s Bob Pettit will provide expertise on identifying hawks in flight.
• Pelee Wings will offer free optic cleanings and demonstrations.
• Take part in various beginner bird and insect hikes.
• Enjoy Chris Gurniak’s wooden flute performance at the outdoor classroom during lunch hours.
• Purchase delicious lunch options from Scotty’s BBQ and Catering.
• Native Trees and Plants (NTP) will sell exclusively native plants for your garden this fall.
• Experience a guided forest therapy walk hosted by Natural Pathways Learning Centre
• Windsor Essex Storm Enthusiasts (WE SEE) will highlight local weather in the region and share storm chasing stories.
• Just Fishin’ Friends will be at the Trout Pond to share casting tips with guests.
• Visit multiple artwork booths featuring a variety of wildlife and nature themed displays

A great family event for experts and amateurs alike. Gates to the festival open at 10am and admission is $20 per vehicle to gain entry.

• For the full schedule please visit Festival of Hawks Schedule
• Get acquainted with the Festival of Hawks Map located here Festival of Hawks Map
• Birds of prey resources Migratory Raptor Flight Guide

Follow us along on the Festival of Hawks Event Facebook page for new announcements. We look forward to seeing you there!