Wings of Change: Springdale’s Annual Monarch Flight Festival Returns Sept. 14
Springdale, Arkansas, gears up to celebrate the iconic Monarch butterfly in its annual Monarch Flight Festival taking place on September 14. This cherished event brings together nature lovers, families, and environmentalists to commemorate the migration of the Monarch butterfly and highlight the importance of native plant habitats.
The festival, hosted at Walter Turnbow Park, offers a range of activities and educational programs that emphasize the crucial role these native plants play in sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting the Monarch butterfly’s life cycle. From planting milkweed plants to the famous butterfly release, the event promises to be an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family.
One of the key organizers, Marty Powers, a seasoned gardening and pollination expert from the Shiloh Museum, has dedicated years to raising Monarchs. His meticulous care ensures the delicate timing of caterpillar growth to reach adulthood, illustrating the intricate process involved in preserving these magnificent creatures. With thousands of milkweed plants given away over the years, the community’s commitment to environmental consciousness is evident.
The festival will kick off at 10 am and conclude at 5 pm, featuring a mix of interactive activities, educational sessions, and a children’s parade, making it an ideal event for families. With the joint efforts of the Downtown Springdale Alliance, the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, and local partners like LISA Academy and the Springdale Public Library, this year’s festival promises to be more vibrant and impactful than ever.
