March 10-12, 2023
Join us for the migration experience of a lifetime. The 40th Festival will be March 10-12, 2023
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 Information
Tours, talks and special event information for our 40th Anniversary Festival can be found on our Eventbrite page. Please click below to browse all the events.
Tickets are on sale now!
Festival Schedule
FREE Movie
Wings Over Water @ Vali 3
We are very excited to announce that Wings Over Water is coming to the Vali 3 theater for our 40th Anniversary of the Monte Vista Crane Festival. Wings Over Water tells the story of the epic journeys of three amazing bird families – the Sandhill Crane, the Yellow Warbler and the Mallard Duck – with extraordinary footage of their fascinating behaviors. This exclusive engagement is FREE for all and sponsored by Ducks Unlimited. Showtimes are Friday 3/10 @ 7pm, Saturday 3/11 @ noon, and Sunday 3/12 @ 5pm. Don’t miss it!
Workshop
In Light of Nature Photography Workshops
Award-winning nature photographer Ed MacKerrow will be offering three, one-day workshops each day of the festival. These workshops are limited to 10 participants per day, and are likely to sell out quickly. If you are interested in reserving a space, click below to learn more and register at the In Light of Nature website.
Crane & Festival Updates
Hawks Aloft Returns
By MVCF admin |
A Pod of Cranes
By CraneFest Team |
A Sneak Peek: 2023 speakers
By CraneFest Team |
Experience the Monte Vista Crane Festival Your Way...
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!
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.
Thank you to our sponsors!
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