Indiana Audubon's 8th Annual Hummingbird Migration Celebration returns Saturday, Aug. 9, to Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary in Connersville. The daylong event marks the start of Ruby-throated Hummingbird migration in Indiana and features live banding demonstrations, bird encounters, family-friendly nature activities and more.

The celebration, running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., centers on the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the state's only breeding hummingbird species, as nesting winds down and the birds begin their fall migration. Visitors can attend live banding demonstrations at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. to see wild hummingbirds up close during the brief moments they're banded and released. A noon presentation by master bander Lina Rifai will highlight hummingbird behavior, migration timing and the seasonal changes that influence their life cycle.

Those attending can also try hand-feeding wild hummingbirds along the sanctuary's hummingbird prairie path. Guided hikes will depart every 30 minutes from the accessible birding blind and last about an hour, with each offering a closer look at birds, butterflies, fungi and other mid-summer wildlife.

Families can roll up their sleeves for hands-on fun like crafting beeswax candles, building bluebird boxes, or trying their hand at nature journaling. All activities are included with admission and suited for families.

Live animal programs will feature birds of prey from the Salamonie Raptor Center, sponsored by Wild Birds Unlimited Carmel, along with reptiles during the Scales and Tales session. Fishing with Go Fishin' with Clint will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with all gear provided.

Local artisans and vendors will be on-site throughout the day. Visitors can purchase native species from Native Plants Unlimited, with options specially chosen to support hummingbirds and butterflies at home. Lunch and refreshments will be available from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from Bus Stop Bistro, Big Lemon Shake Ups, and Shark Bite Popcorn. Live music by The Hammer & The Hatchet will provide a backdrop for the festivities.

Advance tickets are $10 for adults and $15 at the admission tent on the day of the event. Admission is free for youth ages 17 and under. Learn more and purchase tickets at hmc25.eventbrite.com or call 765-205-1255.