Keynote Speaker
Peter Kaestner
Join us for an inspiring keynote by Peter Kaestner, who became the first person in history to observe 10,000 species of birds — a feat that he has repeated two more times!
Friday, September 18 • 7:00 PM
Springbrook Gardens Park
Guided Bird Walks
Join a festival guide on a small group hike at Headlands Dunes, Mentor Marsh, and other nearby parks.
Limited Spots
Lake Erie Pelagic
Navigate the inland waters of Lake Erie in search of pelagic species, led by experienced guides.
Food Trucks & Vendors
Local food trucks and area vendors will be on-site with delicious options and unique goods.
What’s New for 2026
Improved registration process
Expanded programming & walks
Smaller groups for many walks
New birding locations
Talks/vendors Saturday & Sunday
More vendors & exhibitors
Saturday Social event
Thanks to Our Sponsors!
Piping Plover Level
Presenting Sponsor
Verdantas is proud to support the Headlands Birding Festival because it advances education, stewardship, and community engagement around one of Northeast Ohio’s most significant natural resources—the Lake Erie shoreline and its role in global bird migration. The festival’s focus on expert-led programming, public education, and inclusive outdoor experiences aligns with our commitment to thoughtful collaboration, scientific curiosity, and long-term resilience of natural systems. By supporting an event grounded in local partnership and volunteer leadership, Verdantas reinforces its dedication to strengthening communities while promoting informed appreciation and protection of the environment we all depend on.
In partnership with
Experience the best of Lake County with events, attractions, and dining. Enjoy nature, wine, and local favorites for a memorable visit. Visit TourLakeCounty.com
Wood Duck Level
Sanderling Level
Yellow Warbler Level
Aventuras El Ceibo
Costa Rica Bird Tours
We are grateful for the support and collaboration of these organizations, whose contributions help make the Headlands Birding Festival possible:
Blackbrook Audubon Society, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Friends of Headlands Beach State Park, City of Mentor Natural Resources, Lake Metroparks, and Tour Lake County.
New to Birding?
You do not need to be an expert to enjoy the festival. Beginner-friendly walks and talks are available throughout the weekend.
A Community that Loves Birds
- 350+ species documented in Lake County
- Birders from across the Midwest
- All experience levels welcome
Festival Begins in
September 18–20, 2026
Mentor, Ohio
Be Part of the Festival Community
There are many ways to support the Headlands Birding Festival—find the one that fits you.
Volunteer With Us
Meet fellow birders and help create an unforgettable weekend.
Support the Festival
Your gift helps fund programs, speakers, and conservation.
Partner With the Festival
Show your business’s commitment to nature and the community.
Powered by volunteers, donors, and local partners.
Here’s what attendees had to say about last year’s festival:
You have knowledgeable and committed staff and volunteers. It showed how much the community cares about this “special” place.
Thank you for such a great event. I’ve been there 2 years in a row and plan to continue attending future years.
Awesome festival! Everyone was so nice and helpful! Can’t wait til next year!
The volunteers did a great job! Everyone was helpful and so kind to share their knowledge.
So much fun. Everyone was so friendly and helpful! We met people that we hope to connect with next year.
The best part was being around fellow birders. The [keynote] speaker was good and the sound system much improved since last year. The wine tastings and the snacks made for an enjoyable evening.