Classes and Programs

Classes and Programs

There’s no better way to learn more about your favorite National Aviary birds or the birds in your backyard than from a National Aviary expert. The National Aviary offers a variety of engaging classes for people of all skill levels!

Steller's Sea Eagle taking a bath
Headshot of a Victoria Crowned Pigeon

Photo Credit: National Aviary Educator and Photographer Mike Faix

Brushes & Birds: Flamingo Fest!

Sun., February 23 | 11 am – 1 pm | Members: $40; Non-Members: $45 | All Materials and National Aviary Admission Included | Register Here

  • Brushes & Birds: Flamingo Fest Details

    February portrait: A Fabulous Flamingo, in honor of Flamingo Fest!

    Did you know flamingoes get their iconic color from the food they eat? It’s true and now’s your chance to paint your very own iconic, pink work of art!

    Join Maria DeSimone Prascak of Maria’s Ideas; MariasIdeas.com for a creative and colorful class in painting your own fine and feathered masterpiece. In this course, designed for painters of all ages and abilities, follow Maria’s step-by-step instructions to paint a portrait of a well-loved resident of the National Aviary: the American Flamingo. 

    Open to participants 8 years and older. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a registered adult.

Brushes & Birds: 21+ Penguin Edition!

Thurs., June 12 | 5:30 – 8 pm | Members: $40; Non-Members: $45 | 21+ | All Materials Included | Register Here

  • Brushes & Birds: 21+ Penguin Edition Details

    June portrait: African Penguin!

    Did you know penguins have a streamlined body that is tapered at both beak and tail? Paint your very own portrait of this aerodynamic waddling wonder! Join Maria DeSimone Prascak of Maria’s Ideas (MariasIdeas.com) in person for a creative and colorful class in painting your own fine and feathered masterpiece. In this course, designed for painters of all painting abilities, follow Maria’s step-by-step instructions to paint a portrait of a well-loved National Aviary bird: the African Penguin!

    Prior to class, relax with friends and meet a National Aviary Animal Ambassador! Enjoy a glass of wine, beer, or non-alcoholic beverage and scrumptious bites,  available for purchase from Atria’s.

    Please note: this event is for adults ages 21 and up. 

Falconry: the Sport of Kings

  • SOLD OUT!!! Sat., March 29 | 10 am – Noon | Members: $20; Non-Members: $25 | National Aviary Admission Included
  • Sat., August 2 | 10 am – Noon | Members: $20; Non-Members: $25 | National Aviary Admission Included | Register Here
  • Falconry: the Sport of Kings Details

    Falconry, the Sport of Kings, has been around for thousands of years. Join the National Aviary’s licensed falconer and Director of Animal Programs and Experiences, Cathy Schlott, to discover the rich history and modern-day practices behind this unique sport. Learn about the variety of birds falconers hunt with and the individual consideration in selecting a species while enjoying a visit from one of the National Aviary’s Ambassador Animals. Explore the variety of falconry equipment and get an overview of the regulations governing falconry in the United States.

    A Lanner Falcon landing on licensed falconer, Cathy Schlott's outstretched gloved hand.

    Cathy Schlott extending her gloved-hand as a Lanner Falcon lands on it

    To ensure the best experience for guests and our birds, this program is for guests ages 10 and older. Guests under the age of 16 need to be accompanied by a registered adult over 18 years of age.

Virtual Fun: Meet and Tweets!

Brighten your team’s day by having a special guest attend your next video meeting or virtual happy hour! You can schedule a surprise video drop-in with a penguin, parrot, or owl!

Learn More!

Visit our FAQ section of our website for our cancellation policy. In cases of insufficient registration, the National Aviary reserves the right to cancel any program. Under these circumstances, you will receive a full refund. 

Find information about our fun and engaging camps for all ages here!

In The News

See All News

National Aviary to take over Shady Side Academy middle school | TribeLIVE

A Shady Side Academy alumnus is helping the National Aviary find a nest for its next breeding and conservation center, teaching hospital and educational space.

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National Aviary welcomes 10 new animal ambassadors | WPXI

The National Aviary is welcoming 10 animal ambassadors into its family.

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National Aviary gets 7 new species | MSN

The aviary says it's already home to more than 500 animals, and the new species highlight the importance of biodiversity in shared ecosystems. 

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National Aviary gets 7 new species | CBS News

Seven new species are getting a home at the National Aviary, and most of them aren't birds.

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National Aviary getting new avian conservation center | CBS News

The aviary is getting a new property, Shady Side Academy Middle School and it will create a first-of-its-kind conservancy. KDKA's Jessica Guay spoke with National Aviary executive director Cheryl Tracy about the new facility.

Read More »