New Haven Parks will celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with the 2026 Bird Migration Festival on October 10, from 8 am to 3 pm.
World Migratory Bird Day celebrates and brings attention to one of the most important and spectacular events in the Americas – bird migration.
The theme for WMBD 2026, “Every Bird Counts – Your Observations Matter,” highlights the role of public participation in collecting data on migratory bird populations, their habitats, and the factors that impact them, contributing to our knowledge of how to protect them. Community science, ranging from backyard bird counts to large-scale coordinated surveys/schemes, provides information on species distribution, abundance trends, migration timing, and breeding success. This data is important for identifying conservation priorities and informing effective conservation action plans and strategies. By engaging individuals and communities in monitoring efforts, we not only gather scientific data but also build a deeper connection to nature, raise awareness about the challenges migratory birds face, and inspire direct conservation action.
Enjoy fun, free, family-friendly activities at Lighthouse Point Park
Hawk Watch, 8 AM - 3 PM
Educational Activities, 8:30 AM - 3 PM
Kids’ Activities, 8:30 AM - 3 PM
Lighthouse Tours, 9 AM - 1 PM
Guided Bird Walks, 8 AM - 9 AM, 9 AM- 10 AM & 11 AM - 11:30 AM (for kids and new birders)
Hawk ID Workshop, 10 AM - 11 AM
Community Science Blitz, 11 AM - 1 PM
Live Raptor Show, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Plus Retail, Food, and Beverage Vendors!
Partners: Menunkatuck Audubon Society, Audubon Connecticut/New York, Lights Out Connecticut, New Haven Bird Club, Stewart B McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, Community Placemaking Engagement Network, Blue Moon Raptors