Puget Sound Bird Fest

The 22nd Annual Puget Sound Bird Fest celebrates “Every Bird Has a Song” with two days of speakers, guided bird walks, field trips, exhibits, and educational activities for all ages. This year’s theme highlights the diversity of bird vocalizations—from the subtle calls of shoreline species to the complex songs of forest migrants—and encourages people to listen more closely to the natural world around them.

The festival begins Saturday morning with guided bird walks at locations across Edmonds and the surrounding region, offering opportunities for both beginning and experienced birders to explore local habitats and learn about birds by sight and sound. Activities continue throughout the day at the Frances Anderson Center, where visitors can explore an exhibitor area featuring conservation organizations, artists, scientists, and community partners.

A full schedule of presentations will take place in the Edmonds Plaza Room, with talks including “Understanding Bird Songs” by David Lukas, as well as sessions on seabirds of Puget Sound, bird-focused journalism, and how everyday choices—like the foods we buy—can support bird conservation.

Families can start their Saturday at the Edmonds Library with a special Bird Fest Storytime featuring stories, songs, and movement inspired by this year’s theme, followed by a hands-on craft. Family-friendly activities continue throughout the day in the Bird Fest Kids Room, offering interactive ways for young attendees to connect with birds and nature.

Sunday’s programming brings Bird Fest into the field with additional guided walks throughout the region, a native plant sale, and a popular birding cruise departing from Edmonds Marina. The three-hour cruise offers a chance to see seabirds such as puffins, auklets, and guillemots while learning from expert guides on board.

Most Bird Fest activities are free and open to the public, with select experiences offered on a pay-what-you-can basis to keep the festival accessible to all.

Registration for bird walks and the photography workshop opens on May 1, as well as the entry period for the bird photography contest.