23rd Annual Burrowing Owl Festival: A Celebration of Cape Coral’s Wildlife
Get ready to celebrate Cape Coral’s rich natural heritage at the 23rd Annual Burrowing Owl Festival on Saturday, February 22, 2025! From 10 AM to 4 PM, Rotary Park transforms into a hub of wildlife education, family fun, and conservation advocacy. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about Cape Coral’s iconic burrowing owls and support local wildlife preservation efforts while enjoying an action-packed day of activities, live animals, and community spirit. Mark your calendar and join the festivities!
What to Expect at the Burrowing Owl Festival
The Burrowing Owl Festival is packed with activities and exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. It’s one of our favorite Cape Coral events and we have been attending for years. My kids love the live animal encounters and last year we took a photo with a baby alligator.
From live wildlife encounters to interactive learning experiences, here’s a glimpse of what you can expect at the event:
Live Animal Encounters
Meet fascinating creatures up close with Adam’s Animal Adventures, offering engaging wildlife education that’s perfect for the whole family. Whether it’s furry, feathered, or scaly friends, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s diverse fauna.
Wildlife and Photography Tours
Embark on guided wildlife bus tours to spot burrowing owls and other native animals thriving in their natural habitat. For photography enthusiasts, the Photography Bus Tour provides expert guidance to capture breathtaking images. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance at CCFW’s website.
Wildlife & Conservation Expo
Explore the work of over 30 local organizations dedicated to protecting Southwest Florida’s environment and wildlife. From educational exhibits to inspiring conservation stories, this expo will deepen your understanding of regional ecology.
Butterfly House Tour
Stroll through Rotary Park’s butterfly garden and take a guided tour of the Butterfly House, a serene sanctuary filled with colorful butterflies and native plants. This a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal to some of the most beautiful butterflies native to Southwest Florida and a must for nature lovers.
Learning Adventures Bus
For the first time, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida is bringing its mobile classroom, featuring hands-on science exhibits that bring the wonders of nature to life. This interactive experience is ideal for curious minds of all ages.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Rd, Cape Coral, FL 33914
Rotary Park, with its lush greenery and serene setting, is the perfect venue for this celebration of Cape Coral’s natural treasures.
Key Highlights of the Festival
Expert Speakers
Learn from leading wildlife and conservation experts through a series of talks covering topics such as habitat preservation, the challenges of urban development, and the fascinating lives of burrowing owls.
Arts & Crafts Vendors
Shop from local artisans offering handmade creations, from unique jewelry to decorative crafts inspired by Southwest Florida’s natural beauty. These one-of-a-kind items make for meaningful keepsakes or gifts.
Silent Auction and Online Auction
Place your bids at the silent auction featuring exclusive items, with all proceeds supporting wildlife preservation. Can’t make it in person? Participate in the online auction, running now through February 23, at Bidding for Good.
Family-Friendly Activities
Bring the kids along for face painting, interactive crafts, and other fun activities designed to entertain and inspire. It’s a fantastic opportunity to nurture a love of wildlife in young attendees.
Delicious Food and Refreshments
Indulge in local eats and refreshing beverages while enjoying the festival atmosphere. The wide variety of food vendors ensures there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Insider Tips for Attending
- Arrive Early: For the event there is additional parking and you can hop on a golf cart that will take you to Rotary Park but it’s always a good idea to arrive early to secure the best parking spots.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as many activities are outdoors. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat!
- Bring Cash: While some vendors may accept credit cards, having cash on hand can make transactions quicker and easier.
- Check the Schedule: Visit CCFW’s website for the latest updates on tours, speaker times, and activities.
Why You Should Attend
The Burrowing Owl Festival isn’t just a celebration of Cape Coral’s official bird—it’s a call to action for conservation. By attending, you’ll support critical efforts to protect the city’s unique wildlife, including burrowing owls, gopher tortoises, and more. It’s a day of fun, education, and community spirit that also makes a lasting impact on the environment.
Other Southwest Florida Nature and Conservation Festivals and Events
- Festival of Birds (January 16th-18th, 2025): This multi-day event at Rookery Bay Reserve offers guided birding tours, conservation talks, and activities for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Wellness in Nature Fest (January 25, 2025): Hosted at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, this event focuses on mindfulness, eco-crafts, and nature walks to rejuvenate the body and soul.
- Ground Owl Day (February 2, 2025): A unique Cape Coral take on Groundhog Day, featuring Athene the burrowing owl predicting spring’s arrival.
- Creepy Crawly Day at Calusa Nature Center (February 8, 2025): Explore the world of insects and reptiles through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and kids’ activities.
- Naples Botanical Garden Flower Festival (Spring 2025, exact date TBA): Explore breathtaking blooms and themed garden displays in one of Southwest Florida’s most serene and picturesque venues.
- Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s Earth Day Festival (April 2025): Celebrate the region’s natural habitats with guided tours, interactive exhibits, and conservation-focused activities.
Join the Celebration of Cape Coral’s Natural Treasures
The 23rd Annual Burrowing Owl Festival offers a unique blend of education, entertainment, and conservation, making it a must-attend event for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Save the date for February 22, 2025, and come celebrate Cape Coral’s beloved burrowing owls while supporting efforts to protect the region’s precious wildlife. For more information, visit Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife or call 239-980-2593.
Support Wildlife Conservation in Cape Coral
Join Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife to help protect the region’s unique wildlife, from burrowing owls to gopher tortoises and purple martins. By volunteering or becoming a member, you can contribute to preserving Southwest Florida’s diverse species and their habitats. Visit CCFW’s website to learn how you can make a difference.
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