Salty Bird Festival

A Family Event Celebrating the
Wild Birds of Saltville, Virginia!
October 2-4, 2026

Did you know that more than 200 species of birds have been documented in the Saltville Well Fields?

Join us for a weekend of celebrating the amazing wild birds found in Saltville! Here’s a schedule with an idea of what to expect:

Fri., Oct. 2, 6:30-7:30 pm, at the Museum of the Middle Appalachians
Bird Lecture: “Bird Diversity in Saltville”
Join members of the Holston Rivers Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalist as they discuss the unique and interesting habitat found in the Saltville Well Fields. You’ll see some of their favorite birds, learn a bit about migration, and get insights into why you see them in the Well Fields all the time!

Sat., Oct. 3, 9-10:30 am, in the Well Fields, leaving from Food Country Parking Lot
Bird Walk
Bob Riggs and Elaine Sharpe will lead a bird walk through the Well Fields beginning at 9 am – great for kids and adults!

Sat., Oct. 4, 9-11:30 am, Next to the Well Fields
Learning Stations, Games, Prizes!
Visit tables from 9-11:30 am with information, games, and prizes! Learn about raptors, feathers, fossils, bird song, and more! Kids get a free book while supplies last! Kids can make a craft! Door Prizes!

Sun., Oct. 4, 8:15-9:30 am, Food Country Parking Lot:
Bird Walk
Members of the Bristol Bird Club will lead a bird walk in the Well Fields. Fascinating for everyone!

We want to thank our partners!
Bristol Bird Club
Museum of the Middle Appalachians
Saltville Public Library
Smyth County Chamber of Commerce
Wise Owl Bookstore