*Click here to view the festival schedule*
Media contact: Andy Bingle, Interpretive Programs Manager, 608-356-9462 est. 108
BARABOO, WI – The International Crane Foundation will celebrate its annual Cranes of the World Festival Saturday, August 5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at its global headquarters in Baraboo, Wisconsin.
Come meet all 15 species of cranes from around the world. Learn about the four African crane species, from the stately Wattled and elegant Blue Cranes to the stunning crowned cranes, in the Spirit of Africa Exhibit. View ten more species from diverse regions in Europe, Asia, Australia and North America in the Johnson Exhibit Pod, including the Endangered Red-crowned and Siberian Cranes. Spend some time in a pristine Wisconsin wetland with a pair of the world’s rarest cranes, the Whooping Crane. Here you will learn how the International Crane Foundation is bringing back North America’s tallest flying bird from the edge of extinction.
The day will be filled with fun activities for families, including craft tables where all guests can learn how to fold an origami crane. Our staff will make balloon animals, and visitors will be able to work with aviculturists to create special treats for our cranes.
Children can join in a scavenger hunt with a Cranes of the World passport as they find answers to questions throughout the crane exhibits. Children who complete the hunt will be awarded a special surprise. Guests are encouraged to find a front row seat for naturalist and humorist David Stokes, who will sing fun and informative songs. He will introduce guests to many of the animals who need healthy wetlands, just like the cranes. David will be performing at 10 and 11 a.m., as well as at 1 and 2 p.m.
Wisconsin’s Poet Laureate Karla Huston will make a special appearance from 12:30 to 1:30 pm at the Whooping Crane exhibit. She will talk about the inspiration nature provides and the power of poetry. Huston also will read some select poems from our Poetry in the Prairie competition.
Bagged lunches will be available for purchase from one of international partners, Friends of Muraviovka Park, which guests can enjoy in one of our picnic areas.
While at the foundation, visitors also can tour beautiful restored prairie and take home a memento from the crane-themed gift shop. Click here to plan your visit!