Lipu Oases & Reserves Festival: 100 Nature Events on May 9-10, 2026

Lipu Oases & Reserves Festival: a nature weekend on May 9-10, 2026

On Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2026 the Lipu association stages the Oases and Reserves Festival across 26 protected areas in Italy, with nearly 100 activities focused on wetlands, coastal zones and woodlands.

The event coincides with World Migratory Bird Day and provides opportunities to observe flamingos, herons, raptors and many other species, alongside family-friendly educational activities.

Program highlights

• Birdwatching sessions and guided walks from hides and observation points;
• Children's workshops (nature music, art therapy, creative labs);
• Nature photography workshops and citizen science projects;
• Beach cleanups and community habitat management actions;
• Release events for wildlife rehabilitated in rescue centers (scheduled in several reserves).

Selected local events

• Oasi Lipu Cesano Maderno (Lombardy): guided tours and a "Wild Orchestra" music workshop using natural sounds.
• Oasi Lipu Bosco del Vignolo (PV): a day dedicated to children in the "Children's Oasis" (ages 4-10).
• Ca’ Roman Nature Reserve (Venice): beach cleanup on Sunday May 10 with local associations.
• Torrile and Trecasali Reserve (Parma area): observations of the large heronry, followed by a small aperitif event (reservation required).
• Oasi Lipu Bianello (Reggio Emilia): orchid and butterfly observations on Sunday 10.
• Chiarone Reserve - Oasi Lipu Massaciuccoli (Tuscany): dawn boat trip to witness the marsh awakening.
• Lago di Sibolla Reserve (Lucca): citizen science bird surveys guided by experts.
• Oasi Lipu CHM of Ostia (Rome): release of a rehabilitated wild animal (Saturday 9 at 18:00).
• Soglitelle Oasis (Caserta) and Saline di Priolo (Syracuse): wildlife releases and days focused on sea turtle and flamingo conservation.
• Biviere di Gela (Caltanissetta): Sunday walk to observe white stork nests.

Why join

The oases and reserves are protected spaces ideal for field excursions, hands-on environmental education and volunteering. The festival suits families, birdwatchers, nature photographers and schools.

Practical tips: bring binoculars, sturdy footwear, water and sun protection; check for required reservations for some activities on the association's official channels or by contacting the individual reserves.