When winter returns to the lower Merrimack Valley, so do Bald Eagles and Snowy Owls and other exciting winter wildlife. Every year Mass Audubon hosts a grand event marking their return. Come to Newburyport on Saturday, February 14, 2026, for a full day of fun indoor and outdoor activities that celebrate the return of the Bald Eagles! Learn about these magnificent eagles and other amazing raptors, and why our local habitat is so important to them.
Visit Eagle Viewing Sites Along the Merrimack River
Join us at the best eagle-viewing locations around Newburyport, Amesbury, and Salisbury Massachusetts. Our naturalist guides will be available to inspire and educate you about these magnificent birds of prey.
Bring binoculars or a scope if you have one! Please consider carpooling, as parking is limited. Appropriate footwear and clothing are advised; some sites may be snowy or icy.
Registration is not required for viewing locations and on-site activities at Joppa Flats Education Center or the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters.
Activities
Free Family-Friendly Activities & Raptor Presentations
On-site activities are free, open to all ages, and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Specially guided educational programming is also available by pre-registration online only. Sign up early, space fills quickly. Program description and registration links are listed below.
Eagle Festival brochures, including viewing site location maps; raptor information, and family activities are available at Joppa Flats Education Center and our event partner Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters, located across the street.
At Joppa Flats Education Center you'll find raptor-themed family activities, including crafts and tabletop science, and information on Bald Eagles and other raptors.. At Parker River National Wildlife Refuge drop in from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm for raptor-themed crafts and insights into our Rescue Raptors campaign, plus live owl presentations at 10:45 am, 12:30 pm, and 1:45 pm.
Events geared for kids and teens:
*Please note that some events are geared for adult audiences and not intended for children.
Photo By:
©Bill O'Connor
When:
Saturday, February 14, 2026 9am-4pm
Prices:
Prices Vary
Phone:
978.462.9998
Email:
