As thousands of migratory birds return north after a long winter, they bring with them the promise of warmer days, sun, and happiness. Marking the end of another dark and cold season, these feathered friends symbolize new life and the colours of spring. You’re invited to explore the world of birds during these upcoming celebrations! This year’s celebrations offer an exciting mix of online and in-person events, most free to attend.
Toronto Bird Celebration
The return of migratory birds heralds the 6th Annual Toronto Bird Celebration. It will kick off at the beginning of May and run through the second week of June.
The celebration includes a variety of free in-person and online sessions, offering something for everyone. The line-up includes events for new and experienced birders, families, and birders with disabilities. Don’t miss:
- A virtual “Birds and Bhangra” dance lesson with Gurdeep Pandher of the Yukon
- Paddlebirding tours of Toronto Island and Lake St. George
- “Birding and Loneliness: A Quest for Kinship and Community” webinar with Aranya Iyer
- “The Dance of the Timberdoodle (The courtship of the American Woodcock)” with Justin Peter at Tommy Thompson Park
You can see the full event schedule at torontobirdcelebration.ca. You can also follow #TOBirdParty on Twitter and Instagram for updates!
With the “Celebirdies” contest on social media, bird lovers in the GTA have the chance to win prizes by sharing their bird photos. See the contest rules for details on how to enter. Winners of the weekly draws will receive packages with prize packs of Kanken Backpacks and caps from Fjällräven, online courses from Passerina Bird Connection, published works from Firefly Books, and more.
We invite you to connect with the Bird Champions that make the Toronto Bird Celebration a reality: TD Friends of the Environment, Pattison Outdoor, Armstrong Bird Food, and Kowa – Optics Provider. We also thank the sponsors that make these free and fantastic events possible: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Fjällräven, Quest Nature Tours, Royal Ontario Museum, and Firefly Books. Thank you for this generous support!
–Olivia Carvalho, Birds Canada
Vancouver Bird Celebration
Get ready to celebrate all things feathered! Vancouver Bird Celebration is back for our 11th annual event from May 14-31. This celebration will bring together bird lovers from all across BC and the rest of Canada to witness the birds of the Pacific Flyway. Learn about our favourite seasonal visitors through webinars, workshops, talks, and other activities led by bird enthusiasts across the region. No matter your experience level – from expert bird nerd to casually curious – there is sure to be something for you to enjoy! Don’t miss:
- Stationary “Big Sit” bird counts at Queen Elizabeth Park with Birds Canada, and at Stanley Park with the Stanley Park Ecology Society
- Cultural bird tour entitled “Teaching of the Birds” with Talaysay Tours
- A Cat and Bird Meetup in Stanley Park with the Stewardship Centre for BC
- “Tweet! Tweet! Little Birds in the Garden” storytelling event at the VanDusen Botanical Garden
Be sure to check out vancouverbirdcelebration.ca for the full list of events and follow us on social media for updates! Happy birding.
– Alyx Coulter, Stanley Park Ecology Society and David Bradley, Birds Canada
Facebook: @Vancouver Bird Celebration
Instagram: @VanBirdCelebration
Twitter: @VanBirdCeleb
