Every year on March 15th, turkey vultures, or buzzards, return to Hinckley, a township in Medina County, Ohio. This event is celebrated as Buzzard Day and has been observed since the early 1900s.
The celebration of this day is a way to honor the long return of these birds to their nesting grounds during the beginning of spring each year. Locals gather to watch them arrive at Whipp’s Ledges and enjoy festivities such as food vendors and live music.
The History Behind Buzzard Day
The tradition of Buzzard Day began in Hinckley back in the early 1900s when local residents noticed that turkey vultures would always return to Whipp’s Ledges on March 15th every year. They decided to celebrate this event by hosting an annual festival with food vendors and live music.
Since then, the celebration has grown into a popular event that draws people from all over Ohio and beyond. It has become a tradition for families to come together and enjoy the festivities while watching the buzzards make their annual return home.
What Happens During Buzzard Day?
On Buzzard Day, locals gather at Whipp’s Ledges to watch as thousands of turkey vultures make their way back home after spending winter months in warmer climates. The event usually begins around 9am with live music and food vendors set up throughout the area.
Throughout the day there are various activities for visitors to participate in such as disc golf tournaments, 5K races, scavenger hunts, and more. There are also educational programs available for those who want to learn more about these amazing birds and their migration patterns.
At 2:30 pm sharp, everyone gathers around Whipp’s Ledges to witness one of nature’s most spectacular sights – thousands of turkey vultures returning home from their winter migration! After they have settled into their nests for the night, visitors can stay for one last round of live music before heading home for the evening.
How Can You Celebrate Buzzard Day?
If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate this special day then why not plan a trip down to Hinckley? You can join in on all the festivities while taking in some breathtaking views of these majestic birds making their way back home after months away from their nesting grounds.
You can also take part in educational programs offered throughout the day which will teach you more about these incredible creatures and how they migrate each year. And don’t forget about all the fun activities like disc golf tournaments, 5K races, scavenger hunts, and more!
No matter how you choose to celebrate it, Buzzard Day is sure to be an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget! So mark your calendars now so you don’t miss out on this amazing event!
