Throughout the year, the Powdermill Avian Research Center (PARC) offers public events that allow visitors to increase their knowledge and appreciation of birds and in some cases to observe PARC staff as they conduct their research.
During Spring and Fall migration, we offer FREE behind-the-scenes Open Houses and Free Guided Tours for people to see up-close how researchers safely capture and band birds, and learn about the data they gather. Visitors also are able to visit PARC’s flight tunnel and hear about how we’re studying avian perception of glass to provide glass manufacturers and building designers with important information that will help reduce bird-window collisions.
UPCOMING PUBLIC DAYS
Free Guided Tours: 8:00-9:30am, registration is required
September 4, 2026
October 2, 2026
Open Houses: drop in from 8:00-11:00am
September 19, 2026
October 17, 2026
Wings Over Westmoreland: August 15, 2026
(includes hummingbird banding demonstration – event is held at Powdermill’s nature center)
Owling at the Moon: November 7, 2026
(event is held at Powdermill’s nature center)

TrailMixer at Powdermill Nature Reserve
Back by popular demand, please join us for a reimagined annual fundraiser supporting the groundbreaking research, inspiring educational initiatives, and vast public programming at Powdermill Nature Reserve. Enjoy an evening of hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and mingling with friends as we toast to the incredible work happening at Powdermill.
The TrailMixer will be held annually on the Friday before Memorial Day. We hope to see you there!
Check this page often or follow us on Facebook to learn more about upcoming events. Events will also be posted on Carnegie Museum of Natural History‘s website. An email is required for registration since all of these events are outdoors (weather-dependent) and may be cancelled at any time.
