We’re flying with excitement over these fun events that the Georgia Bird Fest has to offer!

Georgia Bird Fest officially kicked off last April 22nd, but its month-long celebrations runs until the 21st of May, so there’s something for everyone! Hailed as Georgia's largest bird and nature festival, it includes activities such as guided field trips to Georgia's best birding hotspots, nature-based workshops, and participation from guest speakers. 

The events range from the city center to the coast, and they cater to both novices and experts. You can either sign up for a BeltLine bike tour, a live raptor show, or a canoe trip down the Chattahoochee River. There are also creative offerings such as webinars on bird photography with professional nature photographer Eric Bowles and drawing workshops with Christy Baker Knight, an award-winning naturalist writer and illustrator.

However, we are most excited about Exploring Mason Mill Park, which will be on May 6th! On this event, Ranger Jonah McDonald of DeKalb County's Park at Mason Mill Park and Jamie Vidich will lead a 2- to 3-mile walk through Mason Mill Park's various bird habitats, including wetland, lake, riparian, and forest. Ranger Jonah will also provide information about the park's plants, animals, and history. This event is free, but you’re required to register first. 

Another one on our list is the Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve happening on May 20th! Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve comprises a 28-acre nature preserve in DeKalb County. With a pond and wetlands area, pine forest, low shrub meadow, and wooded uplands, this birding hotspot draws many fascinating species each spring, including migrating warblers, and breeding waterfowl! Keep your eyes peeled as well, as there are unexpected surprises that show up! On this event, Stephen W. Ramsden, Director and Founder of the global STEM nonprofit "Sunlit Earth," will lead a beginner birder hike through the Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve. You are free to take photos as you hike through the muddy terrain. However, this event costs $35 per person and is limited to only 20 people. 

The month-long celebration of Georgia Bird Fest will conclude on Sunday, May 21st, with a Closing Celebration at Round Trip Brewing Company. It's highlighted by a keynote speech by David Lindo, author of The Urban Birder, Tales From Concrete Jungles, #Urban Birding, How To Be An Urban Birder, and The Extraordinary World of Birds, will deliver the keynote address. You can also purchase copies of his books and have them signed at the Closing Celebration.

Georgia Bird Fest is a fundraiser for Georgia Audubon, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit's conservation and education programs and initiatives. It brought in more than $75,000 last year.