Kids Crane Fest Returns October 10
Celebrate National Refuge Week with a day of family-friendly fun at the 2026 Kids Crane Fest, happening Saturday, October 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters.
More to Explore: What’s New at the 2027 Monte Vista Crane Festival
The Sandhill Cranes will always be the stars of the Monte Vista Crane Festival. But one of the things we love most about this event is everything the cranes lead us to discover.
More to Explore: What’s New at the 2027 Monte Vista Crane Festival Read More »
Festival Passes, Guided Experiences and More
For 2027, we’re making a few changes designed to make it easier to understand what your ticket includes, choose the experiences that interest you most and build the festival weekend that works for you.
2027 Keynote – Kristi Draginis
We’re excited to welcome Kristi Dranginis, founder of Bird Mentor, as the keynote speaker for the 44th Annual Monte Vista Crane Festival, March 5–7, 2027.
2026 Art Workshops & Special Events
Art has always been at the heart of the Monte Vista Crane Festival. From visual storytelling and hands-on workshops to film and illustration, these sessions invite participants to slow down, observe closely, and engage with cranes and the San Luis Valley in creative ways.
2026 Crane Fest Tours
Festival tours are at the heart of the Monte Vista Crane Festival experience. Led by expert guides with deep local knowledge, these outings take you into the landscapes that sustain Sandhill Cranes and countless species of birds and other wildlife.
2026 Crane Fest Speakers
This year’s festival promises to soar to new heights with a lineup of engaging talks and renowned speakers who will inspire and educate attendees.
2026 Keynote – Rosemary Mosco
The Monte Vista Crane Festival is thrilled to announce that Rosemary Mosco—acclaimed author, illustrator, and science communicator—will be our 2026 keynote speaker!
Where Do the Cranes Go?
Every March, thousands of Sandhill Cranes descend upon the San Luis Valley, filling our skies with their calls and drawing nature lovers from across the country to the Monte Vista Crane Festival.
2025 Crane Fest Speakers
This year’s festival promises to soar to new heights with a lineup of engaging talks and renowned speakers who will inspire and educate attendees.