Wingin’ It in Greensboro

If you think birdwatching is all hushed tones and khaki vests, think again! Something special is taking flight in Greensboro, and it’s not just birds. The Black Belt Birding Festival is soaring into town August 1-3, and this isn’t your average nature walk. 

Whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher or a first-time birder, bring your binoculars and get ready for a full-blown celebration of birds, people, and the rich culture of the Black Belt. This is one summer weekend that’s truly for the birds—in the best way possible!

So, what’s on the schedule? Birds, of course! This festival is a birdwatcher’s dream come true. Join conservation group Alabama Audubon for expert-led tours across the Black Belt's diverse habitats to spot species like Swallow-tailed Kites, Wood Storks, and Painted Buntings. These birds aren’t just fun to spot—they’re also rare, which makes the sightings all the more thrilling for beginners and seasoned birders alike!

But if you’re not in the mood for a trek through the woods, don’t worry. There are plenty of opportunities to join in the fun without breaking a sweat. You can listen in on storytelling sessions, educational talks, and a keynote from Dudley Edmondson, a trailblazer in the birding world who’s helping to make the outdoors more inclusive. More of a history buff? Take a historic site tour or join in one of the family-friendly programs highlighting the region's ecology and civil rights history!

Now, don’t worry—this weekend isn’t just about the birds... It’s about people coming together to appreciate nature, history, and each other. Local vendors and food trucks are bringing flavor to the festival—think Southern cooking, handmade crafts, and friendly faces around every corner. Oh, and don’t forget the tunes—singer/songwriter Debbie Bond will be there on opening night serving up some live blues music (think the blue jays will like it?)!

So whether you're chasing rare birds, soaking up civil rights history, or just looking for a good reason to road trip to Greensboro, the Black Belt Birding Festival delivers the goods in the woods. It's got the perfect mix of education and celebration, with something for the bird-obsessed and the bird-curious alike. Plus, where else can you spot a Wood Stork by morning and enjoy live blues and fried catfish by evening?

This isn’t just a festival—it’s a joyful reminder of how wild beauty and community spirit can come together in one unforgettable weekend. Grab your tickets and bring your appetite and a sense of adventure. You won’t regret it!

Find more events to fill your summer—both inside and outside—at www.guidetoalabama.com/arts-entertainment!