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.

For the 44th Annual Monte Vista Crane Festival, March 5–7, 2027, we’re expanding the ways visitors can learn, explore and experience the San Luis Valley. So whether you’re a lifelong birder, a photographer, a family with curious kids, a college student or simply someone who wants to spend a remarkable weekend outdoors, we promise you will have an unforgettable experience during your crane fest weekend.

More Ways to Get Out and Explore

Seeing thousands of Sandhill Cranes lift off against the San Juan Mountains is an experience in itself. This year, we’re also continuing to build a broader lineup of small-group guided experiences that take visitors deeper into the landscape.

Some will focus on birds and wildlife. Others will introduce visitors to the science, history, culture and natural landscapes that make the San Luis Valley unlike anywhere else.

These limited-capacity outings are designed for people who want to go beyond simply attending the festival and spend time learning alongside local experts and guides.

A Bigger Welcome for Students and Young Nature Lovers

Friday at the 2027 festival will put a special emphasis on youth and student experiences, with programming designed to make it easier for school groups, college classes and young people to participate.

We believe a crane festival should inspire the next generation of scientists, conservationists, artists, birders and outdoor enthusiasts, including kids who might be seeing the cranes for the very first time.

Children 15 and under can attend the festival’s talks, keynote, Friday movie and free programming at Ski Hi without purchasing a Festival Pass.

Looking to bring a school group or college class? This year we will be offering group and educational discounts designed to encourage participation from the next generation of birders and naturalists. Email us to learn more!

Art, Film and Learning — All Weekend Long

The festival has grown into much more than a place to watch cranes.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can choose from expert talks, hands-on learning, art workshops, a Friday night film, wildlife programs and the Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce’s free Craft & Nature Fair.

Our 2027 keynote speaker, Kristi Dranginis of Bird Mentor, will bring yet another perspective to the weekend, inviting festivalgoers to become more confident, curious observers of the birds and natural world around them.

Come for the Cranes. Discover the Valley.

The Monte Vista Crane Festival began more than four decades ago as a celebration of an extraordinary wildlife story. That remains at the heart of everything we do.

But the festival is also an invitation.

It’s an invitation to learn why cranes return here year after year. To understand the wetlands, working lands and communities that sustain them. To meet people who study and protect wildlife. To explore the San Luis Valley. And perhaps to leave seeing the natural world a little differently than you did when you arrived.

Join us March 5–7, 2027, in Monte Vista, Colorado—where the cranes meet the mountains.