March 8-10, 2024

Thank you to all who joined us to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Monte Vista Crane Festival.

Sandhill Cranes and other migratory birds follow a long route during their seasonal migrations. Along the way, there are many places where you can stop and view these beautiful creatures. So what makes the Monte Vista Crane Festival Unique? We believe it is a combination of unmatched scenery, exceptional wildlife viewing, and the friendly, welcoming communities of the San Luis Valley.

At the Monte Vista Crane Festival you can enjoy thousands of Sandhill Cranes, ducks, and geese flying against a backdrop of mountain scenery. Raptors will adorn the power poles and owls will be sitting with their young. A visit to the Monte Vista Crane Festival is an opportunity to see an amazing natural spectacle as well as experience a unique rural community.

2023 Festival Recap

From tours and talks to film premieres and craft fairs, the 40th Anniversary of the Monte Vista Crane Festival was an overwhelming success, and a true testament to the passion of crane viewers and SLV hospitality. We are grateful for the support from visitors, locals and businesses alike, and we are eager to see what the future holds for this very special festival. Interested in getting involved in the 2024 festival? Email us!

2023 Festival Schedule

Where the Cranes Meet the Mountains

This short documentary, made possible by a grant from the Colorado Tourism Office and our partners, was produced to commemorate the 40th Annual Monte Vista Crane Festival. Filmmaker Christie Bode-Skeie follows the journey of South Fork artist Amanda Charlton Hurley, a new arrival to the Valley experiencing the sights and sounds of Sandhill Cranes for the first time. Watch the film below and read more about the project at the Alamosa Citizen.

Trailer

Full Length Video

Crane & Festival Updates

Wetland habitat health

By MVCF admin | May 11, 2023

Wetlands provide essential habitats for a wide variety of bird species, including sandhill cranes, which rely on these ecosystems for nesting, foraging, and migration.

Here’s to the next 40 years

By MVCF admin | April 18, 2023

The 40th Anniversary of the MVCF was an overwhelming success. Here's to another 40 years of cranes, community, and conservation.

Hawks Aloft Returns

By MVCF admin | February 14, 2023

After a forced hiatus from recent crane festivals due to COVID restrictions, we are very pleased to announce that Hawks Aloft will once again be bringing their Avian Ambassadors to this year's Crane, Craft and Nature Fair.

Photo by Dave C Jones

Plan Your Visit

From festival maps to all the details on where to stay and eat while you're in town, we have you covered!

Photo by Ed MacKerrow

Learn More About Cranes in the SLV

We have the answers to all (or most) of your crane questions! Or at least we try. Find all your crane information here.

Become a Sponsor

Are you a local business interested in supporting the Monte Vista Crane Festival? Learn more about the different types of sponsorship opportunities available.