By Christine A. Smyczynski
Travel back in time to the days of knights, royalty and peasants at Hawk Creek’s annual Renaissance Festival. This event is Hawk Creek’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Hawk Creek Wildlife Center, one of the largest not-for-profit outreach and raptor rehabilitation sites in the state, is only open to the public four times a year for special events. The Renaissance Festival takes place on July 17, 18, 24 and 25 from 11am-4pm.
This event features period re-enactors, delicious foods, a free flying bird show, period entertainment, an art auction, and more. You can also learn about the ancient art of falconry; hunting with a bird of prey, which was done in Europe by nobility during medieval times.
You will have the opportunity to interact with wildlife up close and walk with the eagles. In addition, there will be Barn Owl releases each day. Barn Owls are one of the rarest raptors in our area.
There will be a special appearance by Jared Miller from the TV show Animal Explorations, with 2 shows and autograph sessions daily. A concert by the Irish rock band, Stonerow, is scheduled for July 17 from 5-7pm. (There is a separate charge for the concert).
Be sure to bring a camera and dress for the weather, as the event happens rain or shine. In consideration of the animals at Hawk Creek, please leave your pets at home. Admission is $14 adult, $11 senior, $8 children, and $32 family. Parking is free.
Hawk Creek Wildlife Center, 655 Luther Road, East Aurora, NY. 716-652-8646
www.hawkcreek.org
Interested in learning even more about raptors? Browse our selection of wildlife books on USABirdSupply.com and check out Hawks From Every Angle: How To Identify Raptors in Flight, featuring beautiful full-color photos taken by Jerry Liguori.