DECATUR – Every winter, one of the world’s great natural wonders takes place right here in Decatur, Alabama. More than 20,000 sandhill cranes (that’s a third of Decatur’s human population) along with nearly two dozen critically endangered whooping cranes descend upon Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and transform the Tennessee River wetlands into a living stage of sound and movement. Standing nearly four feet tall, these majestic birds migrate from the upper Midwest to spend the winter months in North Alabama.
To celebrate this awe-inspiring migration, Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association (WWRA) and regional partners are proud to
present the 15th annual Festival of the Cranes, Jan. 9 – 11, 2026. This three-day event invites visitors of all ages to experience the wonder of the cranes through guided viewing opportunities, live entertainment, art, family-friendly activities, and educational programs.
“As the largest wildlife and conservation event in North Alabama, the Festival of the Cranes gives our community a chance to celebrate one of America’s most striking migrations while drawing attention to our local natural resources,” said Grant Thompson, WWRA board president. “Connecting people directly with wildlife inspires stewardship and support for conservation work at our refuge. By bringing together citizens, educators, scientists, and enthusiasts, the festival helps us share the rich natural heritage of our region.”
On Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, the Cook Museum of Natural Science will host a Wild About Whoopers event sponsored by Decatur Morgan Hospital, featuring FREE general admission. Visitors will be able to enjoy the Museum exhibits and learn about endangered whooping cranes free of charge with Cool Cranes! Science on the Spot presentations, a Crane Dance Party, and more fun educational offerings from partners such as the Land Trust of North Alabama, local author Phoebe Goodwin, and Laura Grace Clark Art.
To kickoff crane season in Decatur, The Mallard Coffee Company will host a Meet the Flock family-friendly event on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 2 – 4 p.m., featuring photo opportunities with a number of bird mascots from across North Alabama. The Mallard is located at 14 Lee St. NE, Decatur, AL 35601.
The Festival of the Cranes offers something for everyone – from birding enthusiasts and conservationists to families discovering the magic of cranes for the first time. Attracting thousands of visitors from across the nation each year, this celebration acts not only as an entertaining educational venture, but also as a boost to regional tourism.
Many events are free, and this year’s free admission Saturday at Cook Museum provides an unprecedented opportunity to explore Decatur’s award-winning natural science museum. Some performances and special programs may require tickets.
The Festival of the Cranes is made possible by partners Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Alabama Center for the Arts, Princess Theatre Center for the Performing Arts, Carnegie Visual Arts Center, Decatur Public Library, International Crane Foundation, and Cook Museum of Natural Science.
2026 Festival Highlights
Friday, January 9
- Meet & Greet with Hope – 12:00 PM at Cook Museum of Natural Science (Free event, Exhibits not included)
- Story Time with Hope – 4:00 PM at Decatur Public Library
- The Cleverlys – 7:00 PM at The Princess Theatre
Saturday, January 10
- Wild About Whoopers, sponsored by Decatur Morgan Hospital, featuring FREE General Admission at Cook Museum of Natural Science (Exhibits open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, event 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
- How to Befriend an Eagle: A Global Falconry Tradition – 9:30 AM, The Princess Theatre
- Cranes Can Dance? – 10:00 AM, Alabama Center for the Arts (ACA)
- Make & Take Art Activities – 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, ACA
- Christopher Joe: Insights into Connecting People with Nature – 10:00 – 11:00 AM, ACA
- Wings to Soar – 11:00 AM & 12:30 PM, The Princess Theatre
- Art Demonstration: Art in Nature Conservation with Timothy Joe – 1:00 – 2:30 PM, ACA
- Photography Tips with Donald Hood – 2:00 PM, Decatur Public Library
- Into Whooperland with Michael Forsberg – 2:00 PM, The Princess Theatre
- Dr. Richard Beilfuss, International Crane Foundation – 3:30 PM, The Princess Theatre
Sunday, January 11
- Building Blocks of Crane Behavior – 10:00 AM, ACA
- Delicate Dancers and Fierce Fighters: The Natural History of Cranes – 10:00 AM, ACA
- Jimmy Stiles: Alabama’s Reptiles & Amphibians – 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM, ACA
- Wings to Soar – 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM, The Princess Theatre
- The Albatross of Midway Atoll with Dr. Lauren McGough – 2:30 PM, The Princess Theatre
- Dr. Andy Caven (International Crane Foundation) – 3:00 PM, ACA
For more information, a complete schedule, and lodging options, visit www.VisitDecaturAL.org/FOC26.
Media Release/Emma Martin, Communications Director/Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Inc.
