2024 Festival of the Cranes artwork by Kent Vaughn
Get ready to immerse yourself in a breathtaking spectacle as we once again usher in a magical time of year! “The cranes are coming, the cranes are coming!”—and with them, thousands of snow geese and a vibrant array of birds that claim the stunning Bosque del Apache as their winter sanctuary.
The Festival of the Cranes is more than just a celebration; it’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature, appreciate the beauty of our feathered friends, and support the conservation efforts that keep this precious habitat thriving. Join us from December 11-15, 2024 (with a special evening photography class on December 10) at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge and the City of Socorro Convention Center for an unforgettable experience!
What’s in Store?
This year promises a wealth of activities, including a brand new FREE opening celebration! Here’s just a glimpse of the highlights:
- NEW! FREE! Opening Reception & Celebration: Kick off the festival on Wednesday, December 11 at the Socorro Convention Center, with the enchanting “Cranes after Dark Presentation” by Kylee Warren of Crane Trust. Enjoy tasty hors d’oeuvres from Tumbleweeds Diner, a cash bar, and exciting prizes!
- Annual Dinner & Keynote Speaker: Join us on Thursday, December 12, for an inspiring evening featuring keynote speaker Paul Tashjian of Audubon SW. Savor a delicious dinner catered by Golas Kitchen, showcasing locally sourced ingredients with a Southwestern flair.
- Exciting Tours: Explore our gorgeous Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, as well as other local treasures such as the Very Large Array, Salinas Pueblo Missions, and Bernardo Wildlife Management Area. Experience the beauty and history that surround us!
- Photography Expo: Calling all photography enthusiasts! This year’s Expo area at the Socorro Convention Center will feature camera lenses and equipment from Hunt’s Photo and Video, OM Systems, and Canon Cameras for you to borrow. Perfect for testing that new lens!
With over 85 birding and photography workshops, nature walks, and guided tours, there’s something for everyone. Early registration is highly recommended as many classes and events fill up quickly.
Registration Details
- OASIS members: Registration opens at 9am MDT on October 21st. (Check your email inbox and spam folder for the link.) Not a member yet? It’s not too late to join us—sign up with a monthly contribution here.
- Friends members: Registration opens at 9am MDT on October 22nd. (Check your email inbox and spam folder for the the link.)
- General public: Registration opens at 9am MDT on October 23rd.
Explore the full list of classes and events available here.
We have so much prepared for you. Maps and complete welcome packet can be found here.
For questions about the class schedule and registration, contact registration@friendsofbosquedelapache.org or (505) 890-4381.
For inquiries about sponsorship or navigating the Friends website, please contact Festival Manager, Cari Powell at festival@friendsofbosquedelapache.org.
Join us in celebrating the 35th Annual Festival of the Cranes—we can’t wait to see you there!