Raptor Weekend Frequently Asked Questions
Event Basics
What is Raptor Weekend?
Raptor Weekend is an all-ages, family-friendly event hosted by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, an independent non-profit. It features interactive games, educational programs, and activities for bird enthusiasts of all ages. Live eagles, owls, hawks and falcons will be featured in presentations by wildlife rehabilitators from across the Northeast.
When is Raptor Weekend?
Raptor Weekend is typically held the second weekend of September. This year it will take place on Saturday, September 7, and Sunday, September 8, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day.
How can I get there?
Raptor Weekend is held at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium located at 1401 Hope St., Bristol, RI 02809 (Route 114) - view on Google Maps.
- By Car (Parking Info): There will be limited on-site parking for $5 per car (to be paid at event, cash is preferred!) Once our parking lot fills up, cars may park on the street. We will have a traffic officer to assist in crossing the street.
- By Bus: The Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium is conveniently located on RIPTA Route 60 which travels between Providence and Newport. View the schedule here: www.ripta.com/routes/60/ - be sure to view their Saturday and Sunday schedules if planning to use the bus for the event. Visitors who take the bus to the event receive a Raptor Weekend Event button!
- By Bike: The Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium is located on the East Bay Bike Path. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of this greenway on your way to and from the event. Bike racks are available for visitor use. Visitors who ride their bikes to the event receive a Raptor Weekend Event button!
Ticket and Admission Information
How much is admission?
Please see the admission pricing document– review carefully as we have a number of different ticket types!
How do I purchase admission tickets?
Online: Tickets can be purchased online through Eventbrite (an extra processing fee will be included.)
In-person: Admission tickets will be sold day-of at the event.
Do you offer discounts?
Online Tickets: Tickets increase in price when purchased day-of at the event.
Audubon Members: Simply select the "Audubon Member" ticket levels to receive your member discount. Raptor VIP Passes are excluded from member discounts.
Do ticket proceeds support Audubon?
Yes! All proceeds from Raptor Weekend benefit raptor care, school programs, and habitat conservation efforts by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island. Thank you for your support!
What happens if it rains?
Raptor Weekend is a rain or shine event.
Food, Amenities & Accessibility
Will there be food at Raptor Weekend?
Yes! Here is the schedule (subject to change):
- Hummingbird Restaurant – Saturday & Sunday
- Pit Stop Street Food - Saturday & Sunday
- Moo Mobile (ice cream truck) – Saturday & Sunday
- Empanada Assassin – Saturday Only
- Bolt Coffee - Saturday Only
- Black Dog Donuts – Sunday Only
Is there a place to refill my water bottle?
Absolutely. We have a water bottle refill station located inside and we encourage all visitors to bring their reusable water bottles in an effort to reduce waste. Cartons of water will also be available for purchase in the Nature Gift Shop.
Is the Nature Center and Aquarium ADA-compliant?
Yes! The building and event space are ADA-compliant. Learn more about the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium's accessibility features by clicking here.
What is the COVID policy?
We welcome any visitors that would like to wear a mask while visiting our facility to do so.
What kind of payment methods are accepted at the event?
Cash is preferred for parking and our event raffle. Check and debit or credit cards (with the exception of American Express) are accepted for purchases of admission tickets or in our Nature Gift Shop. Our food vendor's preferred payment method is TBD.
What should I bring?
- Reusable water bottle and snacks (water, snacks and lunch will also be available for purchase)
- Sunscreen and other sun protection
- Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes
- Cash for parking and our raffle
- The main presentation tent has seating but you may bring a small blanket or low chairs for picnicking.
- Camera - this event offers great photo opportunities
What is not allowed?
- No alcohol or drugs
- No pets (service dogs are welcome)
- No weapons
- No smoking on premises
Event Schedule and Presenters
Where can I find the schedule of events and list of presenters?
This information will be posted (and updated as needed) on the main Raptor Weekend webpage: asri.org/raptor-weekend. Printed copies of the schedule will also be available at the event.
Will I get to hold or touch the birds?
No. The types of licenses held by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island and this year's wildlife rehabilitator presenters do not allow for this type of interaction.
Which species of birds will be at the event?
Due to each bird's individual needs, the weather forecast, and other limiting factors, we cannot guarantee any particular bird will be present at the event. You can expect to see an amazing variety of owls, hawks and falcons!
Will there be a flight demonstration this year?
Yes, Masters of the Skies will do flight demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday.
