Puffin Fest flies back into the calendar this month

Returning after a hugely successful debut last year, Puffin Fest will feature a programme of family-friendly and environmentally-focused activities, aimed at inspiring Seabird Centre visitors to learn more, while also highlighting the importance of conserving and protecting seabirds for future generations.

The 10-day programme, running from May 15, features a range of activities, including workshops with award-winning photographer Tom Langlands, Puffin Parties, Puffin Express boat trips, creative sessions with the artist Mandy Thomson, guided walks with East Lothian Council Ranger Service, plus the chance use the interactive live cameras in the Discovery Centre.

And this year’s Puffin Fest is extra special, as the centre celebrates its 15th birthday this month.

Euan McIlwraith, television and radio presenter, will be on hand to launch the festival and help visitors celebrate the birthday.

Tom Brock, seabird centre chief executive, is delighted to see Puffin Fest return to the centre.

He said: “Puffin Fest is not only a fun way to mark the birds’ seasonal homecoming to Scotland but also an opportunity to inform people of the issues and challenges that puffins face, and the actions we all can take to make a difference.

“We are also working in partnership with the local community, encouraging visitors to spend time in the town with their Puffin Passport, where puffin stamps mean prizes!” Euan McIlwraith added: “I’m really looking forward to helping the Seabird Centre launch Puffin Fest and mark their 15th birthday.

“As a conservation and education charity, it’s fantastic to see them communicating important environmental and conservation messages in a fun and engaging way. I hope lots of people take the opportunity to join in the Puffin Fest fun.” Events at Puffin Fest are included with admission, except from the Wildlife Photography Workshop for Beginners and the Puffin Express boat trips.

For the full programme of events, visit www.sea bird.org