The Sandhill Crane Festival will take place on January 18-19, 2025, in Birchwood, Tennessee. This is the 34th year of the festival. Come celebrate the return of this migrant bird. Breath in the fresh air. Hear its call. See its dance.

With up to 20,000 sandhill cranes returning to the area each year, you're bound to be caught up in the spectacular display of the sandhill cranes, eagles, waterfowl, and more on the refuge. Volunteers will be on hand with spotting scopes, but you're welcome to bring your own binoculars. Dress for the weather, rain or shine.

Free buses shuttle attendees from the Birchwood School on Highway 60 to each of the locations. No parking is permitted at the refuge unless attendee is in possession of a handicap placard.

The American Eagle Foundation will once again join us at the Birchwood School for two live performances each day, along with Nashville recording artist, Second Nature. Vendors will be set up in the gym and homecooked meals prepared in the kitchen, including Ms. Linda's homemade breakfast biscuits and vegetable soup.

Schedule of Events:

07:00 am:  Doors open for breakfast (cafeteria open throughout the day)
08:00 am: Vendor area opens, and shuttle service begins (buses run to the Hiwassee Refuge and Cherokee Memorial from the Birchwood Community Center)
10:00 am: Official Welcome and musical guest Don King
11:00 am: Mount LeConte Jug Band
12:00 pm - 12:30 pm: Wings to Soar, Live Raptor Show, Auction and Raffle and Raffle (Cakes by Karen)
01:00 pm - 01:30 pm: Wings to Soar, Live Raptor Show