Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Monte Vista Crane Festival, returning March 6-8 with a full weekend of birding, art, education and community celebration.
The Monte Vista Crane Festival is in its 43rd year. In 2026, the festival is expanding beyond the weekend to introduce Crane Week, a collection of locally led activities taking place during the days leading up to the festival.
This expansion invites visitors to extend their stay, spend more time viewing cranes in the fields and refuges; explore the San Luis Valley; and enjoy local businesses, art, food and outdoor recreation throughout the week, organizers say.
“The Crane Fest is truly one of the best events in our region — and one of the best birding events in the whole country,” said Jenny Nehring, board member at large with the Friends of the San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuges, which organizes the annual festival. “What makes it especially special is experiencing world-class crane viewing in a welcoming small town like Monte Vista. Our talks, tours and programming are simply top-notch and go a long way in terms of connecting people from across the country with sandhill cranes and other wildlife, reinforcing how important conservation and stewardship is to our shared future.”
The 2026 festival features a robust and accessible schedule designed for seasoned birders, curious newcomers, families and creatives. A single Festival Pass includes 14 talks, the keynote address and special film programming.
Keynote speaker: Rosemary Mosco
The 2026 keynote speaker is author, illustrator and science communicator Rosemary Mosco. Known for her popular Bird and Moon comics and her work with The New York Times, Audubon, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Mosco brings humor, insight, and accessibility to the natural sciences. Her keynote will anchor a weekend of engaging, thought-provoking programming that connects people of all ages with the natural world.
Talks, tours and birdwalks
Festival attendees can choose from a wide range of expert-led talks covering birds, wildlife, conservation, ecology and the unique landscapes of the San Luis Valley. Guided crane tours, birding excursions and community birdwalks provide opportunities to experience migration firsthand. Many birdwalks are offered in collaboration with SLV GO!, expanding access to local outdoor expertise and reinforcing the festival’s commitment to inclusive, place-based experiences.
Expanded art workshops with The Church Project
New for 2026, the festival expands its art workshop offerings in partnership with The Church Project in Monte Vista. These hands-on workshops, ranging from printmaking and painting to nature-inspired creative practices, invite participants to explore migration, wildlife and landscape through art. Workshops are designed for all experience levels and provide another way to engage with the festival beyond traditional birding.
Family-friendly and community-centered
The Monte Vista Crane Festival prides itself on being welcoming and family-friendly. Kids under 15 can attend many events with their families, and programming throughout the weekend is designed to spark curiosity and connection across generations.
A highlight of the weekend is the Craft & Nature Fair, hosted by the Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce. The fair features local and regional artisans, educational exhibits and hands-on activities. All vendor inquiries for the Craft & Nature Fair should be directed to the Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce.
Tickets are now on sale.
For schedules, ticket details, and festival information, visit the Monte Vista Crane Festival website.