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Building Community Through Partnership at the Snow Goose & Birding Festival

March 5, 2026

Scenes from the 2026 Snow Goose & Birding Festival, including Jason Dorsey, festival chair Robin Hanks and featured artist Holly Stafford.

The Stanwood Camano Snow Goose & Birding Festival is one of the region's premier winter events. For the 2026 festival, held on the last Saturday of February, SCAAC played two major roles.

Running the official Call for Art

SCAAC managed the festival's official Call for Art, guiding the submission process, coordinating the selection and spotlighting talented local artists.

This year's featured artist, Holly Stafford, gained wide recognition through the festival. Her work reached new audiences, and her profile in the local arts community grew in meaningful ways. It's a powerful reminder that when artists step forward and enter calls for art, real opportunities follow.

Art for all ages

SCAAC also produced the festival's art programming, providing instructors, materials and engaging projects throughout the day. Activities ranged from hands-on projects for children to opportunities for teens, adults and families to create together.

With these activities in place, the festival saw a significant increase in family participation. Children 12 and under attended free, and many parents joined in the art-making alongside their kids, turning the festival into a truly intergenerational experience.

Festival Chairperson Robin Hanks described SCAAC as “absolutely imperative” to an event of this size. It was another successful bird festival for the history books, made stronger by partnership, creativity and a community that keeps showing up for the arts.

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