Festivals & Events
The Carolina Bight Birding Center is proud to host a variety of local festivals and events that celebrate birdwatching, conservation, and community engagement. These gatherings provide a fantastic opportunity for bird enthusiasts of all levels to come together, share their passion, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.
“The Wonder of Wintering Birds” January 23-24, 2026
Tickets available now under the “Tours & Events” Tab!
Join us for an educational evening to discuss the Wintering Birds of The Carolina Bight. Featuring a roundtable discussion with topics ranging from what food is best in the winter for birds, the role of native plants and the important work being done on Pritchards Island.
January 23, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m. – Tabby Place, Beaufort, SC
- Beer, Wine and Soda
- Lowcountry Boil Dinner, Pulled Pork, Mac and Cheese
- Casual attire
- Featured Speakers Include:
- Dr. Andy Jones, Executive Director of The Spring Island Trust and Lowcountry Institute
- Dr. Travis Folk, Wildlife Biologist and Co-Owner Folk Land Management
- Warren Parker, Executive Director of PIRLS
January 24, 2026 – Tour Offerings in The City of Beaufort and at Hunting Island State Park
Morning and Early Afternoon Tours offered in The City of Beaufort and discover the wintering shorebirds of The Carolina Bight at Hunting Island State Park!
Wings Over Beaufort Birding Festival
Wings Over Beaufort – September 23-26, 2025
The 2nd annual Wings Over Beaufort Birding Festival, a signature event celebrating the incredible avian diversity of the Lowcountry. This festival attracts bird lovers, families, and nature enthusiasts from across the region, offering a unique opportunity to learn, explore, and engage with the birding community.
About the Festival
The Wings Over Beaufort Birding Festival features a range of activities designed to foster a connection to nature and promote bird conservation efforts. Festival attendees can participate in citizen science initiatives, volunteer for various conservation projects, and contribute to local programs aimed at protecting our avian friends.
Keynote Speaker: David Sibley
We are thrilled to welcome renowned ornithologist and author David Sibley as our Keynote Speaker for the festival. With a deep passion for birds and nature, David has authored several acclaimed field guides, including The Sibley Guide to Birds, which is a staple for bird watchers everywhere.
David Sibley Bio: A lifelong birdwatcher, David Sibley has been observing and studying birds since childhood. His artwork and field guides are known for their clarity and accuracy, helping both novice and experienced birders identify a wide variety of species. In addition to his remarkable contributions to ornithology, David will be available for a book signing, providing festival-goers with the opportunity to obtain a signed copy of his renowned guides.
Festival Highlights
This year’s festival promises an exciting lineup of events, including:
14 Exclusive Tours: Explore unique birding hotspots such as the Nemours Wildlife Foundation, Spring Island, and St. Phillips Island via Coastal Expeditions. Each tour offers a chance to witness the stunning avian diversity of these remarkable locations.
Evening Presentations: Enjoy two enlightening evening sessions featuring experts in the field:
– Dr. Andy Jones, Executive Director of The Spring Island Trust & Lowcountry Institute
– Felicia Sanders, Coastal Bird Biologist for the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and recent recipient of The Order of The Palmetto
Join Us!
The Wings Over Beaufort Birding Festival is not only a celebration of our feathered friends but also a call to action. Don’t miss out on the chance to engage with a community that shares your passion for birds and nature!
