2010 Schedule of Events

28th Annual Birds and Breakfast Sunday, May 16th

A tradition of welcoming Spring! The Norman Bird Sanctuary partners with local growers , restaurants, and businesses to welcome the arrival of Spring with a big country breakfast spread out under a large tent overlooking the beautiful fields, ridges, and ocean.  Led by experienced birders, walks on the half hour offer people of all ages the opportunity to learn about the birds who make NBS their home.  Our naturalists delight children with an introduction to the hawks and animals of our education programs.  A local farm brings spring babies including goats, lambs, and geese.  A plant sale inspires gardeners.

4th Annual 5K Run/Walk Saturday, June 19th

This race has quickly become a favorite among runners.  USATF sanctioned, the route takes participants past some of the most beautiful scenery in RI - down country roads, winding along the beaches, and past the incomparable Norman Bird Sanctuary property. Kids take part in their own shortened run.  Bagels, fruit, drinks and ice cream await finishers in the NBS orchard.

7th Annual Bird Ball Saturday, August 21st

The Bird Ball has become one of the most sought after tickets of the summer party season.  The setting - under the stars, looking down over the stone walls, fields, and ocean - creates an atmosphere unrivaled.  500 guests dine, dance, and outbid one another with the tempting items included in the silent auction.  Partygoers are encouraged to use their creativity and dress for the theme - this year: "Freebird".

36th Annual Harvest Fair Saturday & Sunday, October 2nd & 3rd

A perennial favorite on the island and around southern New England, the NBS Harvest Fair attracts 13,000 people of all ages.  This 2 day event brings families together to enjoy food, entertainment, games, children's crafts, pony rides, hayrides, pumpkin painting, face painting, and old-time favorites: the Mud Pit and the Monkey Bridge.  Over 80 crafters present their unique work, with many people getting a jump on their holiday shopping.  In 2008 NBS introduced its own version of the ever popular barrel train, "The Mabel Express".  Every year over 300 volunteers look forward to helping NBS with this very special weekend.

NBS Appreciation Party and Annual Meeting Saturday, October 23rd

At the close of our event season we like to thank the many people who have supported the Sanctuary over the year.  Shortly after the Harvest Fair, we invite our board, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and members to come together to share a night of celebration with food, fun, and a bonfire.