The first-ever Urban Birding Festival, which ran from September 13th – September 15th, was an immense success! The festival offered a thrilling mixture of expert presentations, guided birding trips, educational workshops, and social gatherings. It was a fantastic opportunity for experienced and novice birders to learn more about avian wildlife and connect with others passionate about birds.

Highlights of the event include 9 lectures at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Lincoln Park, a keynote dinner at Industry Ales, and 73 outings all around the Chicagoland area. They were all enjoyed greatly with feedback overwhelmingly positive!

Check out some memories of the weekend…

… and some of the birds we had the opportunity to see!

Huge thanks to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, which served as the central location of the festival. Additionally, this three-day event was the result of a collaborative effort among Chicago BIPOC Birders, Chicago Bird Alliance, Chicago Ornithological Society, Feminist Bird Club Chicago and Red Hill Birding. Intense work was put in to ensure that all bird enthusiasts left with new knowledge and memories to share.

Can’t wait for next year’s festival!