Soaring to New Heights: Celebrating 25 Years of the Birds of Prey Program at Callaway Resort & Gardens

PINE MOUNTAIN, GA – For 25 years, the Birds of Prey Program at Callaway Resort & Gardens has been a symbol of education, conservation, and awe-inspiring experiences and the only program regionally that offers daily programming in this capacity. Since its official launch in 2000, this program has connected guests with some of nature’s most extraordinary raptors that captivate the imagination and teach us about the delicate balance of our ecosystem.

To mark this milestone anniversary, we invite you to join us for a very special event:

Bird Fest at Callaway Resort & Gardens – March 30th, 2025

This one-day festival is a celebration of all things avian, bringing together bird enthusiasts, conservationists, and families for a day filled with education, entertainment, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Birds of Prey Program or just discovering your passion for wildlife, Bird Fest is a can’t-miss event!

 Special Bird Fest Highlights:

• Spectacular Flight Demonstrations – Witness breathtaking aerial displays from Callaway’s resident raptors and EarthQuest, a renowned wildlife education organization. See hawks, owls, falcons, and more showcase their natural flight abilities!
• Exclusive Birds of Prey Programming – Meet our longtime feathered ambassadors, and learn about their stories, behaviors, and the conservation efforts that help protect them.
• Bird-Themed Vendors & Crafts – Explore unique bird-themed merchandise, artwork, and handcrafted goods. Plus, get hands-on with interactive craft stations perfect for guests of all ages!
• Educational Experiences – Engage with bird enthusiasts and conservationists as they share insights on birdwatching, habitat preservation, and ways to support avian species in the wild.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Birds of Prey at Callaway Resort & Gardens As we celebrate 25 years of raptor stewardship and education, we also look to the future! Callaway Resort & Gardens is proud to announce plans for an expansion of the program, set to be completed in 2025-2026. This expansion will provide state-of-the-art display enclosures for our birds and enhance the mission of conservation and education through programming, ensuring that future generations continue to be inspired by these incredible animals.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Celebration! Come be part of Bird Fest on March 30th and help us honor the legacy of the Birds of Prey Program while looking forward to an exciting future. Experience the wonder of birds up close, connect with fellow nature lovers, and support the ongoing mission of conservation and education.

Interviews with our expert bird handlers, conservationists, and program leaders are available upon request. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the program’s impact, meet our beloved raptor ambassadors, and gain an inside look at the future of avian conservation at Callaway Resort & Gardens.

About Callaway Resort & Gardens:

Located in Pine Mountain, Georgia, Callaway Resort & Gardens spans 2,500 acres of natural beauty, offering a timeless escape for guests. Established in 1952 by Cason and Ida Callaway, this cherished destination features stunning gardens, which are home to world-famous azaleas and a tropical Butterfly Center, alongside a variety of year-round activities like biking, hiking, ziplining, golf, and the Birds of Prey show. Guests can unwind at the AAA Four Diamond-rated Lodge or relax in family-friendly Cottages and Villas equipped with kitchens, fireplaces, and screened patios. With a lakeside beach, luxury spa, and a legacy of creating lasting memories, Callaway Resort & Gardens is now enhanced by Herschend’s family-focused vision and remains a premier Southern retreat. Learn more at www.callawaygardens.com.

About Herschend 

Callaway Resort & Gardens is part of Herschend’s collection of wholesome family brands. Herschend, the world’s largest family-owned themed attractions company, has been Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating® for 75 years. Its 12,000+ passionate employees (hosts) collectively entertain 15 million families every year across North America, including at iconic award-winning destinations such as Dollywood® Parks & Resorts, Silver Dollar City® Parks & Resorts, Adventure Aquarium®, Callaway Resort & Gardens®, Kentucky Kingdom Theme & Water Park®, Newport Aquarium®, The Vancouver Aquarium® and Wild Adventures®. In addition to its premier themed attractions, Herschend is proud to steward the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters® legacy and provide immersive content and experiences through our Herschend Entertainment Studios® and Pink Adventure Tours® brands. Learn more at www.herschendenterprises.com.