Wings will be spread and curious eyes will be wide open during the 2022 Merrimack River Eagle Festival. This cherished annual event will offer virtual & and in-person options from Tuesday, February 8th through Saturday, February 12th in Newburyport and Amesbury. If you are planning to attend in-person or online you must register in advance for all planned activities in order to allow for management of capacity limits. The annual Eagle Festival, which welcomes back bald eagles to the region, is co-hosted by the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and Mass Audubon’s Joppa Flats Education Center and features many great events. Image taken by Jim and titled (Mr. LifeLoomsLarge).

Although this year’s Eagle Festival will be quite different than prior years, there are still many opportunities to experience this wonderful annual tradition. Register to join online lectures including: raptor demonstrations, winter wildlife photography and winter wildlife. Outdoor guided walking tours will be available for adults and families with children ages 8 and older. Outdoor family programs highlighting winter raptors and other winter wildlife. It is important to register in advance for all online and in-person activities and lectures.

The Merrimack River Eagle Festival is a favorite of both locals and tourists. For those visiting the area for the event, Newburyport is also a destination filled with amazing restaurants, one of a kind shops, and unique experiences. Make a weekend of your visit, there are wonderful places to stay, and continue to explore the area. If you are going to eat, shop, and play in town, consider purchasing a VIP Card to receive local discounts.