Raptor Release
September 26th, 2026
from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Located at: Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center
12805 St Croix Trail S, Hastings, MN 55033
Weather Watch Update:
Due to rain currently forecasted for 1:00 p.m., we are planning to release the rehabilitated raptors earlier than originally scheduled. Bird releases will begin at Noon (12 pm) with programs will follow until 2 pm, rain permitting. Because the birds cannot be released during rain for their health and safety, please plan to arrive by 11:30 a.m. to be onsite in time for the release.
The Raptor Center team will continue to monitor conditions and determine whether the rehabilitated raptors can be safely released. If weather conditions prevent the bird releases, the rest of the Raptor Release event will still go on as planned, including indoor meet-and-greets with education birds from Carpenter Nature Center and The Raptor Center, educational booths, kids’ activities, Pick Your Own Apples, and more. Hay Wagon Rides may also be available, weather permitting.
Release the Birds!
This free family event is a way for our community to share in the success of returning magnificent raptors back to the wild. Whether they suffered from a broken wing, lead poisoning, disease, or any other number of ailments, these raptors have been given second chances at life due to the caring efforts of many.
Enjoy family-friendly activities, a variety of educational booths from local organizations, live ambassador raptors from The Raptor Center, and food truck refreshments for purchase. Programs begin at noon with releases of raptors to follow. Please leave pets at home.
Food available by:
Brick Oven Pizza
Deep Roots
Egg Roll Queen
Unbakeable Edible Cookie Dough
Kona Ice
Educational booths from:
3M wizards
Get the Lead Out
Hastings Environmental Protectors
Minnesota Dragonfly Society
Minnesota Falconry Association
Minnesota Herpetological Society
Minnesota Master Naturalists
Minnesota Ornithologists Union
National Camera Exchange
St. Croix Valley Bird Club
UMN Bee Squad (Honey for sale)
UMN Raptor Center Gift Shop
Washington County Master Gardeners
Washington County Master Gardeners
Wisconsin Master Naturalists
Watch the first-ever virtual Raptor Release from 2021.
Thank you to all of the staff, partners, volunteers, and supporters who help make Carpenter Nature Center’s mission possible.