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.
Wings Over Beaufort Birding Festival
Save the Date: September 23-26, 2025!
We are excited to announce 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 bird conservation community.
About the Festival
Typically held in the spring, 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
Closing Event: Experience an incredible educational session with Steven Schabel, Vice President/Director of The Center for Birds of Prey & Education. Steven will introduce several ambassador birds, offering attendees a memorable and educational close to the festival.
Join Us!
The Wings Over Beaufort Birding Festival is not only a celebration of our feathered friends but also a call to action for conservation. Don’t miss out on the chance to engage with a community that shares your passion for birds and nature!
For the full program agenda and to purchase tickets, please visit our online booking portal. (Link coming soon)
Mark your calendars for September 23-26, 2025, and join us for an unforgettable celebration of birds and conservation in South Carolina’s beautiful Lowcountry!
