The Festival of the Cranes Returns January 12-14th 2024!

Lillie Beth Warner • January 8, 2024

Have you seen the incredible migration of 14,000 Sandhill Cranes and Whooping Cranes in Decatur? Now is your chance! Festival of the Cranes returns to Decatur January 12-14th.

Get ready for an exhilarating experience at this year's Festival of the Cranes, where nature enthusiasts and wildlife experts come together for a celebration of migratory birds and educational entertainment. The festival spans multiple locations, offering a diverse range of activities and events sure to captivate all ages.


You can find these beautiful birds all across the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge! Make sure to check out the newly renovated facilities at the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge with their Visitor's Center, Photo blind, and Observation Tower. While visiting the picturesque refuge, attendees can join along in nature-centric activities, including birding walking tours, photography workshops, and other exciting events. Be on the lookout for the many different types of birds who also call the refuge home during your visit. Last year attendees saw endangered Whooping Cranes, many different breads of ducks, and even a bald eagle!


Once you have seen the magestic cranes at the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge head to Downtown Decatur where the festivities continue! Decatur's attractions have curated an exciting array of activites featuring engaging sessions at the Princess Theatre, the Alabama Center for the Arts, the Decatur Public Library, the Cook Museum of Natural Science, and the Historic Decatur Union Train Depot & Railroad Museum. From mesmerizing rock performances to educational presentations, art exhibitions, and interactive sessions, there's something for everyone.


Now, let's dive into the festival's schedule, unpacking the thrilling lineup of events at these varied locations, and offering a glimpse into what all the 2024 Festival of the Cranes has in store!


Schedule Breakdown

Friday, January 12th


Decatur Public Library sponsored: Story Time with Hope, the International Crane Foundation mascot at Delano Park (3:30 pm)

(If weather is an issue the story time location will be moved to Decatur Public Library stay tuned to Decatur Public Library's Website for updated information.)


Historic Decatur Union Train Depot & Railroad Museum: Crane Train Display (1:30 pm-4:00 pm)


The Princess Theatre: The Prescriptions- (7:00-9:30)   



Saturday, January 13th: 


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Visitors are welcome to explore the refuge's offerings such as the newly renovated Visitor's Center, Observation Tower, and Photography Blind. (7:00 am- 5:00 pm)


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Early Morning Birding with Dwight Cooley (7:00 am- 8:30 am) Registration is closed for this event.


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Early Morning Birding with Christopher Joe (8:00 am- 9:30 am) Registration is closed for this event.


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Photography Workshop: With Robert Smith (9:00- 10:30 am)  Registration is closed for this event.


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Afternoon Birding with Christopher Joe (1:00-2:30 pm) Registration is closed for this event.


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Photography Workshop with Robert Smith (3:00-4:30 pm) Attendees must register to attend this event. Click here to register.


The Alabama Center for the Arts (ACA) Visual Arts Building: 10th Annual Juried Festival of the Cranes Art Exhibition


The ACA Performing Arts Building: Vickie Smith Batty About Bats ( 9:00 am-10:00 am)


The ACA Visual Arts Building: Wings & Flings Painting Party ( 10:00 am-12:00 pm)


The ACA Performing Arts Building: Dr. James B. McClintok: Lost Antarctica (11:00 am-12:00 pm ) 


The ACA Visual Arts Building: Jr. Duck Stamp Workshop with Tammie Clark ( 1:00 pm-2:00 pm)


The ACA Performing Arts Building: Stephanie Schmit: International Crane Foundation ( 2:00 pm -3:00 pm)


The Princess Theatre: Wings to Soar (9:00 am-10:30 am) 


The Princess Theatre: Teddy Roosevelt Show (11:00 am-12:30 pm) 


The Princess Theatre: Wings to Soar (1:00 pm-2:00 pm)   


The Princess Theatre: PBS Star Steve Trash presents a magic show for all ages (3:00 pm-4:00 pm)


The Princess Theatre: Movie Wings Over Water (5:00 pm-6:30 pm) 


Decatur Public Library: Kids’ Activities: assorted crafts/activities, photo opportunity, scavenger hunt, and goodie bags for kids 12 & under (while supplies last)! (10:00 am—4:00 pm)


Decatur Public Library: Build a Crane Puppet! with Tsering Choedron from the Green Feather Foundation (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)

 

Decatur Public Library: Free Meet & Greet with Hope. (Photo opportunity with the mascot for the International Crane Foundation) (11:00 am – 11:45 am)

 

Decatur Public Library: Community Room Decatur Artist Terry Connor- His wildlife artwork in display cases January 2nd – January 30th (12:00pm)


Decatur Public Library: Community Room Wild Discoveries! with Heather Montgomery, Children's Book Author. Touch bones, pelts, and body parts to jumpstart your curiosity for nature exploration. (2:00pm)


Cook Museum of Natural Science: Cool Cranes! Science on the Spot: (10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 PM & 1:00 pm)


Cook Museum of Natural Science: Photo Station: (10:00 am – 2:00 pm)


Cook Museum of Natural Science: Craft & Coloring Activities: (10:00 am – 2:00 pm)


Cook Museum of Natural Science: The Whoopers At Wheeler Video: (10:00 am – 2:00 pm)


Cook Museum of Natural Science: Crane Dance Party: All Day


Cook Museum of Natural Science: Cool Crane Smoothie (available for purchase at Nature’s Table)


Historic Decatur Union Train Depot & Railroad Museum: Crane Train Display (10:00 AM- 12:00 PM)



Sunday, January 14th


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Visitors are welcome to explore the refuge's offerings such as the newly renovated Visitor's Center, Observation Tower, and Photography Blind. (8:00 am- 5:00 pm)


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Early Morning Birding with Teddy Roosevelt ( 8:00 am -9:30 am) Attendees must register to attend this event. Click here to register.


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Photography workshop with Bobby Harrison (10:00 am-11:30 am) Attendees must register to attend this event. Click here to register.


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Birding with Christopher Joe (11:00 am-12:30 pm )Attendees must register to attend this event. Click here to register.


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: Photography Workshop with Bobby Harrison ( 1:00 pm-2:30 pm) Attendees must register to attend this event.Click here to register.

 

The ACA: Performing Arts Building: Vickie Smith Batty About Bats (10:00 am-11:00 am) -Recital Hall


The ACA: Performing Arts Building: Jimmy Stiles: Reptiles ( 11:30 am-12:30 pm) - Recital Hall


The ACA: Performing Arts Building: Dr. James B. MiClintok: Lost in Antartica (1:30 pm-2:30 pm) - Recital Hall


The ACA: Performing Arts Building: Jimmy Stiles Reptiles (3:00 pm -4:00 pm) - Recital Hall 


The Princess Theatre: Wings to Soar ( 11:00 am-12:00 pm) 


The Princess Theatre: Teddy Roosevelt Show (1:00 pm-2:00 pm) 


The Princess Theatre: Wings to Soar (3:00 pm-4:00 pm) 


Decatur Public Library: Kids’ Activities: assorted crafts/activities, photo opportunity, scavenger hunt, and goodie bags for kids 12 & under (while supplies last)! (10:00 am—4:00 pm)

 

Decatur Public Library: Build a Crane Puppet with Tsering Choedron from the Green Feather Foundation (10:00am – 1:30pm)

 

Decatur Public Library: Free Meet & Greet with Hope (Photo opportunity with the mascot for the International Crane Foundation) (11:00 am – 11:45 am)


Decatur Public Library: Wild Discoveries! with Heather Montgomery, Childrens Book Author Touch bones, pelts, and body parts to jumpstart your curiosity for nature exploration. (Community Room) (12:00 pm)


Decatur Public Library: Stephanie Schmidt – International Crane Foundation Whooping Cranes in the Eastern Population (Community Room) (2:00 pm)


Not sure where to find the events? We've got you covered! Listed below are the addresses of each participating location of the Festival of the Cranes 2024.


Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge located at: 3121 Visitors Center Rd, Decatur, AL 35603

Alabama Center for the Arts located at: 133 2nd Ave NE, Decatur, AL 35601

The Princess Theatre is located at: 112 2nd Ave NE, Decatur, AL 35601

The Decatur Public Library is located at: 504 Cherry St NE, Decatur, AL 35601

Cook Museum of Natural Science is located at: 133 4th Ave NE, Decatur, AL 35601

The Historic Decatur Union Train Depot & Railroad Museum is located at: 701 Railroad St NW, Decatur, AL 35601



If you are worried about parking, we have a solution for you!

On Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Narcog is providing a complimentary shuttle services from the Priceville Event Center to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Their generosity ensures that attendees can easily navigate between locations without worrying about parking. If you plan on attending the festival at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge on Saturday we highly suggest using the free shuttle service to avoid long lines for parking. We are very appreciative to Narcog for their incredible support in making this year's Festival of the Cranes even more accessible and enjoyable!


The Priceville Event Center is located at 250 Marco Dr, Decatur, AL 35603.

The Festival of the Cranes promises an extraordinary lineup of talent, featuring captivating presenters, esteemed authors, dedicated conservationists, acclaimed photographers, and top-notch entertainment. Each individual brings a unique expertise and passion for wildlife, conservation, education, and entertainment, collectively enriching the festival's diverse array of experiences. From insightful talks by renowned environmentalists to engaging demonstrations by seasoned photographers, the festival offers a vibrant tapestry of knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration. Below, you'll find a concise description of each presenter, providing a preview of the exceptional talent awaiting you at this incredible event.


  • The Prescriptions

    Hays Ragsdale, Parker McAnnally, and John Wood form The Prescriptions, a dynamic rock & roll band known for blending American and British sounds in their album 'Time Apart.' With a successful debut in 'Hollywood Gold,' they continue to innovate, experimenting with new musical dimensions and textures.

  • Steve Trash

    Steve Trash, star of the PBS kids science show 'Steve Trash Science,' is acclaimed for his exceptional contributions to environmental education. His efforts have earned him prestigious awards like the EEAA’s Best Environmental Education Program of the Year, reflecting his commitment to sustainability, showcased by his solar-powered home in Frog Pond, Alabama.

  • Vicky Beckham Smith

    Revered as 'The Bat Lady,' Vicky Beckham Smith of A-Z ANIMALS is an esteemed environmental educator specializing in mammals, birds, and reptiles. Her engaging bat programs reach thousands annually, earning her prestigious awards and actively contributing to global bat conservation initiatives.

  • Christopher Joe

    Christopher Joe, a District Conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, passionately connects people with nature through his venture, Connecting with Birds and Nature Tours. His farm hosts educational birding tours and diverse nature-related activities, gaining recognition for its dedication to conservation and accessibility.

  • Dr. James B. McClintock

    Dr. James B. McClintock, a polar and marine biology professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, is an authority in Antarctic marine chemical ecology. With over 33 years of research funded by the National Science Foundation, he's a prolific author and public speaker on climate change's impact on Antarctic marine life.

  • Wings to Soar (Dale Kernahan and John Stokes)

    Dale Kernahan and John Stokes, with 72 years of combined experience working with raptors, co-founded Wings to Soar. Their journey includes roles in organizations like the American Eagle Foundation and Save Our American Raptors, conducting thousands of educational raptor programs across the country.

  • Robert Smith

    Robert Smith, a wildlife biologist and seasoned outdoor photographer, coordinates the Wildlife Mississippi Coastal Program. With over 35 years of experience, he combines his wildlife expertise with photography, sharing insights through workshops and publications.

  • Bobby Harrison

    Bobby Harrison, an award-winning nature photographer and educator, retired as a Professor of Photography. With a rich background in photography, his work has been featured in numerous magazines and TV series, earning him recognition for his contributions to nature photography and conservation.

  • Joe Wiegand

    Joe Wiegand, a University of the South graduate and former political consultant, began his acclaimed portrayal of Theodore Roosevelt in 2002. He brings a blend of political science knowledge and theatrical prowess to his captivating presentations.

  • Jimmy Stiles

    Jimmy Stiles, a naturalist and field biologist, focuses on Alabama's herpetofauna diversity and leads efforts in restoring the longleaf forests while working with the Alabama Natural Heritage Program.

  • Heather Montgomery

    Award-winning author and educator Heather L. Montgomery uses her expertise in environmental education to engage young minds. Her books, which include quirky yet educational topics like roadkill and bugs, aim to cultivate scientific thinking in children.

  • Stephanie Schmidt

    Stephanie Schmidt, a graduate in Zoology and Environmental Studies, earned her master’s degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences. She works as the Whooping Crane Outreach Coordinator at the International Crane Foundation, conducting research and managing community outreach efforts related to crane conservation.

Step back in time and relive the magic of a previous Festival of the Cranes through this captivating recap video from the Alabama Tourism Department! Join us on a nostalgic journey, catching a glimpse of the joy, wonder, and excitement that awaits at the upcoming festival. From breathtaking bird sightings to educational workshops and lively entertainment, this recap video offers a taste of the incredible experiences that make the Festival of the Cranes a must-attend event. Get ready to be inspired and mark your calendars for this year's festival, promising even more unforgettable moments and new adventures in store!

For more details about this year's festival please contact us at 256-350-2028 or visit the Friends Of Wheeler Website linked below!

Visit Friends Of Wheeler's Website

Celebrate Nature, Art & Community at the Festival of the Cranes

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Each winter, Decatur becomes a gathering place for nature lovers, artists, families, and birding enthusiasts as we celebrate one of our region’s most remarkable natural events—the return of the sandhill cranes. The Festival of the Cranes returns January 9–11, 2026 , bringing a full weekend of free programs, performances, and hands-on experiences to venues across Decatur. From late fall through early spring, thousands of sandhill cranes migrate to North Alabama, making Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge one of the best places in the country to witness their graceful flight and unforgettable calls. Festival programming offers visitors a deeper understanding of these incredible birds through expert-led talks, storytelling, and interactive experiences that celebrate both the cranes and the landscape they depend on. 

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