The Virginia Osprey Foundation based in Colonial Beach, Virginia, will host the 7th Annual Virginia Osprey Festival in Colonial Beach on April 12, 2025 from 9 am to 4 pm on Town Hill, Colonial Beach, located on the beautiful Potomac River. The festival celebrates the return of its Osprey from their wintering grounds in South America. The festival will offer educational presentations for young and old alike. Our keynote speaker is Mark Smith, an award-winning wildlife photographer known for capturing breath taking pictures of birds in flight, especially Osprey. Among our many exhibitors we are proud to host the Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, Potomac Riverkeepers, the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, and the Center for Conservation Biology. Events include a Northern Neck Master Naturalist led Children’s Bird Walk, an opening blessing by members of the Rappahannock Tribe with tribal dancing later in the day. We will also have food vendors, artisans and a “nestlings’ corner” with fun and educational activities for children. Whether you choose a trolley ride or a golf cart tour, guides will show you the many nests that make up our “Osprey Garden” in Colonial Beach. You will also have an opportunity to be up close and personal with several large raptors. Treat yourself to a variety of delicious food and shop at our many talented artisan booths. There is something for everyone.

Please visit our website for the most up to date news about our festival and other activities we are involved in!  https://www.virginiaospreyfoundation.org

You can check out our osprey nest cam at https://www.youtube.com/@virginiaosreyfoundation

The Virginia Osprey Foundation is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization.

We hope to see you there!

By Joanie Millward