Each May, the Indiana Dunes region along southern Lake Michigan becomes a key migration stopover for thousands of migrating birds, representing hundreds of species on their journey north. Positioned at the intersection of multiple habitats, the area draws tens of thousands of birds—and the people who find joy in witnessing their return—during the height of spring migration.

The 11th annual Indiana Dunes Birding Festival will take place May 15-18, with a public opening event on Wednesday, May 14, featuring a "Dune Birds in Art" exhibition at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center.

The four-day festival features guided field trips and workshops at birding sites across the broader southern Lake Michigan region, including northern Indiana, the Chicago area and southwest Michigan. A Migration Marketplace tent at the Visitor Center will be open to the public Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The festival is organized by Indiana Audubon and hosted in partnership with the Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana Dunes State Park and Indiana Dunes Tourism. More than 180 events are planned, with activities designed for birders of all skill levels. Registration is open, with four-day passes starting at $65 for adults. Single-day tickets are also available. Guided field trips and workshops require additional registration and fees. Details are available at indunesbirdingfestival.com.

Keynote Address Featuring Conservationist Sacha Dench

Sacha Dench, a biologist and founder of Conservation Without Borders, will deliver the 2025 keynote address. Known as the "Human Swan," Dench gained international recognition for "Flight of the Swans," a paramotor journey following the migration of Bewick's swans across 11 countries to spotlight challenges facing migratory birds.

The keynote will take place Saturday, May 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Sand Creek Country Club in Chesterton. It is included with full festival registration. Those attending with a Saturday-only pass may also purchase a separate keynote dinner ticket for $50.

About Indiana Audubon

Founded in 1898, Indiana Audubon is the state’s oldest conservation organization, independent of the National Audubon Society, and engages communities in bird conservation, education, and research. Our mission-driven programs and 735-acre Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary in Connersville promote awareness of bird diversity and their ecological significance. Learn more at indianaaudubon.org and connect on social media @indianaaudubon.