You might think that the Wings Over the Rockies is a bird festival – right? Yes, there are birding events, but it’s so much more!
The week of May 9 to 15 is packed with more than a hundred nature events that explain the important and unique wildlife and their environment in the Upper Columbia Valley. The festival has been Winging It – for 25 Years and this anniversary year promises to be better than ever.
Plan to attend one of the new events, the daily Chirp and Chat session at a local pub or restaurant to meet fellow attendees in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Be sure to reserve a place at any of the festival events at www.wingsovertherrockies.org.
Another way to participate and support Wings is the Online Auction that opened May 6. Just click the button on the website to view dozens of auction offerings, many of which cannot be found anywhere else.
A highlight of the auction is a Small Ship Expedition on the mighty Saint Lawrence River. The 11-day cruise tours three provinces and the French island of Saint Pierre. Adventure Canada donates a trip each year to Wings and this cruise features wildlife, history, and culture with stunning coastal scenery.
Also, famous artist Robert Bateman, keynote speaker for the fifth Wings Festival, has donated a signed copy of his book, Birds, together with an original pen and ink drawing of an osprey.
Back 40 Outdoor Events is offering two nights in a glamping tent for two people with a charcuterie platter. And you can remember the best day of your life by renewing your wedding vows with Dee Conklin, Wedding Commissioner, and celebrate with a dinner and night at Copper Point Resort.
Look for many more amazing adventures, extravagant art and learning opportunities in the Online Auction.
Engaging children is an important Wings’ objective. The Kids Festival event, sponsored and hosted by Main Street Fun & Games, explores the scientific and creative side of nature with the emphasis on fun.
Main Street’s owner, Dee Connell says, “Dozens of community groups are coming together to stage activities. Crafts, play areas, puppets and clowns, something to interest almost everyone.”
The event will introduce LARPING (Live Action Role Playing), “a game where the participants physically act out their characters” explained Dee. Costumes are most welcome at the Kids Festival. Join the Free fun at Pothole Park from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 14.
Photographers, young and older, can enter the free Photo Contest. Photos in four categories for adults and a special category for photo buffs under 16 may be submitted on-line for prizes in each category.
The Grand Prize is a two-day workshop with nature photographer Denise Hoffgaard.
Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival is a week to enjoy, learn and celebrate the amazing ecosystem we live in.
Go to wingsovertherockies.org to book your special adventures, bid on unique auction offerings, check the Photo Contest details, attend The Wardens concert or enjoy the Gala Dinner with keynote speaker, Dr. Harvey Locke.
Lead and above image: Wings Children’s Festival, May 5, 2017. Photos submitted
Wings Over the Rockies
