​📅 Sunday, August 17, 2025 
🕘 10 AM – 1 PM
📍 Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
175-10 Cross Bay Boulevard, Broad Channel, NY 
Free

​Get ready to spread your wings and celebrate the incredible diversity of shorebirds that flock to New York City every year! With around 235 species worldwide and over 40 species that visit NYC each year,

August is the ideal time to observe these fascinating feathered travelers as they rest and refuel in the wetlands of Jamaica Bay.

Join the American Littoral Society, NYC Bird Alliance (formerly NYC Audubon), NYC Plover Project, Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, NYC Parks and Gateway National Recreation Area for the 20th Annual Shorebird Festival—a FREE, fun-filled event for birders of all levels and families of all ages.

🦅 What to Expect:
  • Bird walks with expert guides
  • Engaging talks on shorebird behavior and conservation
  • Kid-friendly activities
  • Stunning views of marshes, ponds, and meadows alive with wildlife

🌿 Where to Meet:
The festival takes place at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, one of the premier birding spots in the Northeast.

🚗 Getting There Is Easy:
  • Subway: Take the A train to Broad Channel; the Visitor Center is a scenic 1-mile walk.
  • Bus: Ride the Q21 or Q53 to Cross Bay Blvd.
  • Car: Free parking is available in the Visitor Center lot.
  • Restrooms are located inside the Visitor Center.

📍 For full directions and accessibility info, visit the National Park Service website. 

Bring your binoculars, pack a water bottle, and come enjoy a morning of birding and discovery at Jamaica Bay! 🌊🐦

Please donate to help support the Shorebird Festival!
Can't attend but want to become a member? Click here to read about membership benefits and how to join!