There is a hum in the air as the fall migration of Hummingbirds is in full swing, and the Pascagoula River Audubon Center believes this is a reason to celebrate. Make plans now to attend the 2021 Hummingbird Festival in Moss Point on September 24 and 25 and have an opportunity to see these tiny, magnificent birds up close, and so much more.
Throughout the two-day festival, guests will have the opportunity to tour the Rhodes Bayou property and observe a variety of bird species. Hummingbirds will be captured, banded, and released both days by Kyle Shepard from the Banding Coalition of the Americas, and storyteller Brian “Fox” Ellis will be impersonating John James Audubon sharing tales of his love of birds and his explorations.
Food, merchandise, and craft vendors will be on display on the front lawn and around the site along with crafts and activities for children and guest presenters for adults. A wide variety of native plants will also be for sale. Fall is a great time to plan for spring blooms, and these species are sure to attract the birds, bees, and butterflies
For a sneak peek at the bird banding, storyteller, and native plants, a special Hummingbird Happy Hour will take place Thursday, September 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. for guests 21 and older. This ticketed event will feature a variety of complimentary wines, beers, and snacks along with a signature drink provided by CASA of Jackson County. The “Dragonfly” drink changes colors and includes edible glitter.
While the festival is open to the public on both days, the Friday activities will include more activities for school-aged children, and Saturday focuses more on the whole family. The Saturday schedule includes an educational presentation on native plants, a visit from Plastics Free Gulf Coast, two different presentations by “Fox” Ellis, understanding bird banding, and a noon performance from the Freedom Ranch.
Admission for the festival from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 5-15. Children 4 and under are free. Admission for Hummingbird Happy Hour is $15 per person. All tickets may be purchased in advance online or at the gate. Event parking will take place in Audubon Parking on Audubon Way along with all public parking areas around the Downtown Moss Point area.
For more information, please contact the Center.