Wetlands Institute Celebration May 13-21

The Wetlands Institute is pleased to announce its Shorebird and Horseshoe Crab Celebration Days. The weeklong event kicks off Saturday, May 13 in Stone Harbor, and runs through Sunday, May 21. Celebration Days grew out of the institute’s popular Spring Shorebird and Horseshoe Crab Festival, and is a rebranding and expansion of that earlier event. “Our shores host the largest concentration of spawning horseshoe crabs in the world – which is tied to the incredible 10,000-mile migration of shorebirds,” says Dr. Lenore Tedesco, Wetlands Institute executive director. “We really wanted to present this as a celebration of this incredible natural spectacle, and offer folks even more opportunities to learn about and connect with the diversity of nature right here in South Jersey.” Celebration Days events are scheduled for both weekends and throughout the week to give attendees opportunities to experience the many different aspects of spring migration in one of the world’s top migration areas. Experiences showcase many different aspects of migration and the natural area in Cape May. Attendees will see horseshoe crabs. The celebration includes options for guided birding walks and Return the Favor horseshoe crabs rescue walks, horseshoe crab and shorebird workshops, children’s story times, and a variety of special presentations and events – including shorebird viewing at Cooks Beach, one of the best locations to see migrating shorebirds. They will also offer a special spin on their regular weekend programming, adapted for the celebration. Celebration Days are designed to be welcoming for attendees of all experience levels. Festival tickets for non-members are $25 for adults and $20 for children. Institute members enjoy a reduced rate of $20 for adults and $15 for children. Tickets can be purchased online through the Wetlands Institute’s website at wetlandsinstitute.org/sshc. Tickets include your choice of two Celebration Days events and admission to the Wetlands Institute for both weekends, May 13-14 and May 20-21, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. People can register for selected events at the time of ticket purchase. In celebration of migration, Skimmer Tours will offer special eco-cruises departing from the Wetlands Institute for an additional fee. Highlights of the cruise include birds and wildlife of the salt marsh, and marine life touch tanks. Pre-registration is required for these special cruises. For a complete schedule of events and more information, visit wetlandsinstitute.org/sshc.