FARMINGTON—It’s time for the 27th annual Great Salt Lake Bird Festival, where both experienced bird watchers and beginners can get out and enjoy close encounters with live birds or simply watch them fly above. The Great Salt Lake is a major north/south migration route for more than 250 bird species, offering birders a chance to catch a glimpse of a variety of different birds.

The festival has moved to its new home at the Western Sports Park in Farmington and will be held May 15-18. It will feature several free activities and workshops for the whole family. 

The all new Wings & Things Vendor Fair will be on Friday, May 16 from 12 p.m.–6 p.m. and again Saturday, May 17 from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Western Sports Park with more than 40 vendors, workshops and giveaways. 

Friday, May 16 starting at 4:30 p.m. visitors can experience close encounters with live birds, owl pellet dissections, student showcase and awards, free hands-on art workshops in watercolor and bird photography. 

Family Day, Saturday, May 7 from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. features fun activities all day with live bird workshops, face painting, arts & crafts, a scavenger hunt and passport.

The festival will offer 80 field trips and 14 workshops during this year’s festival designed to create a unique experience with trips providing “behind the gates” access to areas that cannot be accessed by the general public. Visitors will be able to experience some of Utah's most beautiful State Parks, State Wildlife Areas and National Refuge areas, according to the Davis County website. 

For more information about the festival, activities, workshops and special events visit https://www.daviscountyutah.gov/greatsaltlakebirdfest.