The Virginia Osprey Foundation based in Colonial Beach, Virginia, will host its 6th annual Virginia Osprey Festival in Colonial Beach on April 13, 2024. Colonial Beach, located on the beautiful Potomac River, 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 Dr. Paul Spitzer, a Conservation Biologist who earned his degree from Cornell University. Among our many exhibitors we are proud to host the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Virginia Department of Wildlife resources, Potomac Riverkeepers and Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge. 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 Vega, the Turkey Vulture and other wildlife ambassadors. Treat yourself to a variety of delicious food and shop at our many talented artisan booths. There is something for everyone.

Visitors can also hike, bike, or travel by car to take a closer look at our ospreys during this mating and nest building season. Golf cart rentals are available in town with nest maps provided. Although the festival is a one-day event, visitors are encouraged to spend the weekend. The weekend kicks off on Friday, April 12, with a downtown art walk featuring local artists and wildlife themed art. Enjoy our many restaurants in the Historic District, “The Point”, and on Monroe Bay. After the festival on Saturday, enjoy the Grand Ole’ Osprey Concert hosted by Colonial Beach Brewing. The Town of Colonial Beach is filled with charming Bed and Breakfast establishments and two hotels. The Preferred Hotel of the Virginia Osprey Festival is the Riverview Inn. https://colonialbeachriverview.com/. Make your arrangements early to guarantee your stay for this amazing weekend.
On Sunday, there will be guided bird walks by the Northern Neck Audubon Society and the Northern Neck Master Naturalists and Colonial Beach Parks and Recreation will host “Fly Like an Osprey” kite flying on the beach.

All events on Town Hill are free to the public, trolley and golf cart nest tours and presentations held at the fisheries require a ticket.
The Virginia Osprey Foundation is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization. All proceeds will go toward, platform replacement, repair, and education.

Price: Early Bird Tickets-Single $10; Full Nest $15; Day of event – Single $15; Full Nest $20
Children 12 years and younger are free but must be accompanied by an adult.

We hope to see you there!