How to Enjoy Vulture Fest

This is Rex, a turkey vulture that was brought into too much contact with humans when he was young. Now, he is a permanent resident of Free Again Wildlife Rehabilitation and the unofficial mascot of Vulture Fest.

Hundreds of black vultures and turkey vultures fill the sky near Makanda, Illinois, every fall as the cliffs and high trees of this valley are perfect for riding the wind currents in the eastern Ozarks. The town of Makanda sits in the heart of Giant City State Park, and the beautiful black birds know that the locals look forward to their return every year to signal the end of a long, hot summer. Vulture Fest is a two-day celebration held the third weekend in October to honor the annual migration and celebrate fall in this small, artsy community.

Things You'll Need

• Jacket
• Camera
• Binoculars
• Good walking shoes

Instructions

1. Stop on the hill and visit the vultures. Free Again Wildlife Rehabilitation brings a pair of vultures that could not be released into the wild to give people a chance to see the magnificent bird up close. Free Again officials say many people have the wrong impression of vultures and miss the beauty of the bird. The vulture display is on the hill before you actually get into Makanda, so people can see the birds without the birds being frightened by the festival itself.

2. Bring your binoculars. From almost any place along the road into Makanda, you can see the flocks of big vultures riding the valley's wind currents. To appreciate the beauty of the creature, bring your binoculars, pull off the road, and watch the birds fly.

3. Park near the railroad tracks that run through the middle of downtown Makanda and walk through the festival. Typical fair food, including elephant ears, cotton candy and lemon shake-ups, are available, as well as fries, burgers and whatever strikes your fancy. Across the road, wander through the arts and crafts vendors. Usual vendors include purveyors of tie-dyed shirts for hippies of all ages, scented candles, homemade soap and more.

4. Wander down the Boardwalk, Makanda's permanent installation of shops and art galleries, to enjoy sculpture, weaving, painting and more by local artists. The bathrooms can also be found near the end of the Boardwalk.

5. Head to the pavillion to hear local bands, play bingo, or grab a spot in the shade to enjoy fall in southern Illinois.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring a jacket and dress in layers. Makanda is in the valley and tends to be cool in the autumn mornings, but by midday, the sun is bright and temperatures in the mid-80s are not unusual. Dress for the forecast, but be ready to take things off or put more on.

• Makanda and Vulture Fest is pet friendly. Many people will bring their dogs. Most are friendly, but be sure to ask before approaching an unfamiliar animal.