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May 28 - 31, 2026

15th Annual Yakutat Tern Festival

The Yakutat Tern Festival brings together birders, scientists, families, and travelers from around the world to explore Yakutat’s rich ecosystems — from glacier-fed rivers and coastal flats to old-growth rainforests and ocean estuaries.

Festival Highlights

You Won’t Want to Miss

Why Yakutat?

Explore Yakutat Wilderness & Birding Habitat

Yakutat is remote, wild, and breathtaking. Accessible only by plane or boat, this community lies within the traditional lands of the Yakutat Tlingit people and is framed by rainforest, glacier-rimmed bays, and rugged coastline.

The region hosts one of the largest known Aleutian Tern colonies in Alaska, offering rare birding opportunities and habitat conservation importance.

Whether you’re a dedicated birder, nature lover, or simply curious, Yakutat offers a front-row seat to migratory seabirds, cultural traditions, and intrepid wilderness.

Plan Your Trip

Your Adventure to Yakutat Starts Here

Discover how to get here, where to stay, and what to expect once you arrive in this incredible corner of Alaska.

Getting Here

Yakutat is accessible by air from Juneau, Anchorage, or Seattle, with connections via Alaska Airlines. Visitors often enjoy scenic layovers or extended adventures along the route.

Where to Stay

Local inns, lodges, and B&Bs offer special festival rates, with options ranging from rustic cabins to ocean-view accommodations.

Where to Stay

Local inns, lodges, and B&Bs offer special festival rates, with options ranging from rustic cabins to ocean-view accommodations.

Celebrating Art and Conservation

2025 Yakutat Tern Festival Art Contest Winner

We’re proud to announce Savannah LeCornu as the 2025 Art Contest Winner, recognized for her stunning work that beautifully reflects the connection between people, place, and wildlife in Southeast Alaska.

Stay Connected

Keep in Touch with Yakutat’s Wild Side

Sign up for festival updates, travel tips, and early registration access.

With Gratitude to Our Supporters

We are deeply grateful to the organizations and individuals that make the festival possible.

Secure Your Spot

Register Now

Registration typically opens in late fall. Whether you’re joining for the full experience, field trips, or select events — make sure to register early to reserve your spot.