Festivals
Alaska Bald Eagle Festival
Days of guided walks, talks and celebration in one of the most remarkable corners of Southeast Alaska.
- Nov 11 to Nov 14
- All day
- Chilkat Center for the Arts
- Free to attend
About this event
Every November the Chilkat River near Haines hosts the largest gathering of bald eagles on earth — and photographers from everywhere follow. Hoke Designs has been shooting the Chilkat eagles since 2013 (two of the images in our own brand come from that riverbank). If you’re planning a trip, talk to us about photography workshops and drone-legal areas around the preserve.
Alaska Bald Eagle Festival brings together naturalists, photographers, families and first-time visitors for a festival that feels like a small-town reunion. Something is happening from morning to evening.
Guided outings leave from the main venue throughout the festival, with talks, exhibits and a market in between. Dress for the weather, and plan for a little extra time on the road.
Bring binoculars if you have them. Spotting scopes are set up along the river for anyone to use.
Highlights
Guided outings
Small-group walks with local naturalists and guides.
Talks and films
Presentations from researchers, photographers and storytellers.
Festival market
Local art, gear and food from regional makers.
Day by day
-
Day 1Opening and welcome
Check in, pick up your festival map and meet the guides.
-
Day 2Guided outings and talks
A full day of walks, workshops and presentations.
-
Day 3Closing celebration
Awards, a community dinner and farewells.
-
Day 4Closing celebration
Awards, a community dinner and farewells.
Times are approximate and may shift a little on the day.
Good to know
Weather
Layers and rain gear are a must, whatever the forecast says.
Getting there
Allow extra travel time; ferry and road schedules change with the season.
Photography
Photographers are welcome. Give wildlife plenty of room.
Family friendly
Kids activities run every day of the festival.
