Cape May Spring Birding Festival
48th annual world-class birding festival at one of North America's premier migration sites.
2026 edition — past event
The 2026 edition has ended. Keep these dates as a reference; a later edition needs its own published dates before you reserve a trip around it.
Spring Birding Fest has already run this year — here's what's next
The Jersey Shore event calendar keeps going well past Labor Day. These are the next dated events on it.
- Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off (LBI Chowderfest)Running now · October 3–4 · Beach Haven
- Jersey Shore Half MarathonOctober 4 · Sandy Hook
- Victorian WeekendOctober 9–12 · Cape May
- LBI Surf Fishing ClassicRunning now · August 29 – November 29 · Long Beach Island
- The Race of GentlemenRunning now · October 1–4 · Wildwood
- Oktoberfest at Historic SmithvilleRunning now · October 3–4 · Smithville
Event Details
Date
May 14-17, 2026
Time
Various field trips and programs
Location
Cape May
Cape May Bird Observatory
Admission
$100-170 registration
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Same trip, same weekend
Other things happening nearby around the same dates.
May 15–17 · Cape May
Exit Zero Jazz Festival
Intimate jazz festival featuring Grammy-winning artists in Cape May venues.
Apr 10 – Jun 9 · Ocean City
Ocean City Music Pier Spring Concert Series
Spring concert series at historic Music Pier with classic rock and doo-wop.
May 12 · Wildwood
Wildwoods Restaurant Showcase
Sample dishes from dozens of Wildwood restaurants—proceeds support student scholarships.
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About Cape May Spring Birding Festival
World-renowned birding festival celebrating spring migration at one of North America's premier birding destinations. The 48th annual event features guided walks, workshops, and keynote speakers.
This event has been running for 48 years.
Highlights
48th annual
World-renowned birding destination
Guided field trips
Expert-led workshops
175+ species possible
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Cape May Spring Birding Festival?
Cape May Spring Birding Festival is listed for May 14-17, 2026 in Cape May, NJ. The event typically runs Various field trips and programs.
Is Cape May Spring Birding Festival free?
Cape May Spring Birding Festival requires $100-170 registration. Visit the official website for pricing and availability.
Where is Cape May Spring Birding Festival held?
Cape May Spring Birding Festival takes place at Cape May Bird Observatory in Cape May, Cape May County.
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