Rockton Pelican Fest returns Saturday May 16 with a full day of family fun, wildlife encounters, and downtown activities

Rockton’s spring season officially takes flight on Saturday, May 16, 2026 as Rockton Pelican Fest returns —bringing families, bird lovers, and curious visitors together to celebrate the annual migration of the American White Pelicans along the Rock River. The free, family‑friendly festival runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout downtown Rockton and at the nearby Nygren Wetland Preserve, offering a full day of wildlife programs, hands‑on activities, live entertainment, and small‑town charm.

Organized by the Natural Land Institute, Sinnissippi Audubon Society, the Village of Rockton, and JR Finally Art Studio & Gallery, Pelican Fest continues to grow as one of the areaa's most unique nature‑themed community events. The festival invites residents to “celebrate World Migratory Bird Day and the annual return of the American White Pelicans… with a day filled with activities and sights sure to delight everyone."

A Morning at Nygren Wetland Preserve

For early risers, the day begins before the downtown festivities even start. The Early Bird Hike at the Nygren Wetland Wildlife Overlook (3714 W. Rockton Rd.) runs 7:30–8:30 a.m., led by birding expert Joel Neylon. Visitors are encouraged to arrive by 7:15 a.m. to catch the best morning activity.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., guests can stop by the overlook at any time to view pelicans, Sandhill Cranes, and other wildlife with help from on‑site volunteers. Guided nature hikes depart at:

• 11:00 a.m. with Rick Barton
• 12:30 p.m. with Mark Luthin
• 2:00 p.m. with Kyle Hulbert

A free shuttle will run continuously between downtown Rockton and the overlook, making it easy for families to explore both parts of the festival.

Downtown Rockton Comes Alive

From Main Street to Prairie and Hawick, downtown Rockton transforms into a walkable festival zone filled with educational booths, nature exhibits, food, shopping, and entertainment. Visitors can browse shops offering pelican‑themed specials, stop by the Traveling Science Center at Main & Prairie, and enjoy a full schedule of stage events.

The popular bird card collection returns this year—collect all 23 cards from participating businesses for a chance to win a LEGO ICON Kingfisher and other prizes.

Stage Schedule (Rockton Food & Spirits parking lot)

• 11:00 a.m. – Welcome
• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Rockford Barbershop Chorus
• 12:00–1:15 p.m. – Pelican Costume Contest
• 1:30 p.m. – Bird Calling Contest
• 2:00 p.m. – Bird Trivia Contest
• 3:30 p.m. – Awards for birdhouse decorating, bird card drawings, and a watercolor painting giveaway

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The costume contest, trivia, and bird‑calling competitions have become crowd favorites—easygoing, funny, and perfect for families looking to jump in and participate.

Live Wildlife Encounters and Story Times

Two of the most anticipated attractions return again this year: “Hoo” Haven Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Center and Sherwood the Pelican.

At Rockton Village Hall (110 E. Main St.), “Hoo” Haven will present programs at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., featuring a live American White Pelican and other wildlife ambassadors. The news release highlights the importance of this program, noting that visitors can “see a live American White Pelican and hear about the important work of this wildlife rehabilitation center.”

At the Talcott Free Library, children can enjoy pelican‑themed story times and crafts with Sherwood the Pelican at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. These sessions are designed for young families and offer a quieter, creative break from the outdoor activities.

Art, Crafts, and Local Creativity

At JR Finally Art Studio & Gallery (210 W. Main St.), visitors can explore the Whitman Post Elementary School exhibit, “Art of the Rainforest,” participate in a wooden‑bird craft project, and watch watercolor artist Jean Apgar paint live from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can also register for a free pelican painting giveaway until 3:15 p.m.

Pelicans everywhere during Rockton’s Pelican Fest

Why do hundreds of pelicans stop in the Rockton area each year? No one really knows.

Rockton-Roscoe NewsJean Seegers

Shops throughout downtown will also display pelican artwork created by Rockton Grade School students, adding a community‑wide creative touch.

A Festival for Everyone

Event organizer Jill Martin‑Golden says the team is excited to welcome the community back, noting that new features this year include the Rockford Barbershop Chorus, a traveling banjo musician, and expanded children’s programming. “We’re thrilled to bring Rockton Pelican Fest back to the community for the sixth year,” she said, emphasizing the festival’s blend of nature, education, and small‑town fun.

Whether you’re a birder, a family looking for a spring outing, or someone who simply loves Rockton’s downtown atmosphere, Pelican Fest offers something for everyone. With wildlife encounters, hands‑on activities, art, music, and the chance to see pelicans soaring over the Rock River, it’s one of the most distinctive community celebrations in the Stateline.