Visit Free Flight at the San Diego Bird Festival, hosted by the San Diego Bird Alliance on 2/21/27! We’ll be onsite all day on Sunday with members of our outreach flock!
Join us for the afternoon session Sunday March 21st at the Sanctuary in Del Mar for another incredible Paint event Benefiting the non-profit Free Flight Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar.
We paint outside in the sanctuary amongst the Birds so it’s a really special experience!
$20 from each ticket sold will be donated directly to Free Flight Sanctuary.
Erin will pre draw the basic outlines of the bird onto the canvas, then instruct you how to paint it.
No experience necessary. All ages welcome.
You will get Step-by-Step instruction all the way through from Artist Erin.
All while supporting and enjoying the beautiful Sanctuary!
There will be snacks and drinks provided from incredible local businesses.
You may also bring your own snacks and Non-Alcoholic drinks if you’d like.
Free Flight strives to be the preeminent sanctuary and community resource for the promotion and understanding of exotic birds and the human-animal bond.
Our goals are to re-socialize and rehome companion parrots and to educate the public about their complex mental, physical and emotional needs. We offer permanent sanctuary or rehoming depending upon what is in the best interest of each bird.
We value integrity in all of our dealings with people and their companion birds. Established in 1981 as a boarding and breeding facility, Free Flight has evolved into a one-of-a-kind exotic bird sanctuary where parrots and people connect. It was benefactor Dr. Robert F. Stonebreaker’s vision to create a sanctuary for exotic companion birds that would provide a special and unique environment to raise community awareness and to encourage positive interaction with these birds. Contributing to our tropical ambience, the large pond with our friendly and beautiful koi was originally home to rescued flamingos who have since been successfully re-homed.
Free Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donate | Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
We encourage artistic freedom! You can alter the painting to fit your style and use any of our colors.
We require a 48-hour notice for cancellations/rescheduling.
Refunds must be requested within 3 days of purchase. After 3 days a credit will be given.
Check-in begins 15 minutes before the event start time. Give yourself time to park to avoid arriving late.
Painting and Vino is not responsible for paint on customer or venue property.
No outside food or drink is allowed. They are available for purchase. Wine is not included in your ticket purchase.
If you have any questions about the event, feel free to contact customer service.
Join us for the afternoon session Sunday March 21st at the Sanctuary in Del Mar for another incredible Paint event Benefiting the non-profit Free Flight Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar.
We paint outside in the sanctuary amongst the Birds so it’s a really special experience!
$20 from each ticket sold will be donated directly to Free Flight Sanctuary.
Erin will pre draw the basic outlines of the bird onto the canvas, then instruct you how to paint it.
No experience necessary. All ages welcome.
You will get Step-by-Step instruction all the way through from Artist Erin.
All while supporting and enjoying the beautiful Sanctuary!
There will be snacks and drinks provided from incredible local businesses.
You may also bring your own snacks and Non-Alcoholic drinks if you’d like.
Free Flight strives to be the preeminent sanctuary and community resource for the promotion and understanding of exotic birds and the human-animal bond.
Our goals are to re-socialize and rehome companion parrots and to educate the public about their complex mental, physical and emotional needs. We offer permanent sanctuary or rehoming depending upon what is in the best interest of each bird.
We value integrity in all of our dealings with people and their companion birds. Established in 1981 as a boarding and breeding facility, Free Flight has evolved into a one-of-a-kind exotic bird sanctuary where parrots and people connect. It was benefactor Dr. Robert F. Stonebreaker’s vision to create a sanctuary for exotic companion birds that would provide a special and unique environment to raise community awareness and to encourage positive interaction with these birds. Contributing to our tropical ambience, the large pond with our friendly and beautiful koi was originally home to rescued flamingos who have since been successfully re-homed.
Free Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donate | Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
We encourage artistic freedom! You can alter the painting to fit your style and use any of our colors.
We require a 48-hour notice for cancellations/rescheduling.
Refunds must be requested within 3 days of purchase. After 3 days a credit will be given.
Check-in begins 15 minutes before the event start time. Give yourself time to park to avoid arriving late.
Painting and Vino is not responsible for paint on customer or venue property.
No outside food or drink is allowed. They are available for purchase. Wine is not included in your ticket purchase.
If you have any questions about the event, feel free to contact customer service.
Calling all bird lovers age 14-17! If you’d like to gain hands-on experience assisting with avian care in a sanctuary setting and with public speaking, apply to volunteer with us through our high school Junior Docent Program! Selected participants will train with staff June 28 - July 2, from 10am-1pm each day. Upon completion of training, Jr Docents are expected to complete a minimum of one 2-hour volunteer shift per month for the next year. All volunteer service, including training, can be counted towards community service hours for school and scholarship applications!
Applications will be accepted March 1 - May 30, 2027.
For more information or questions about the program, email Isabelle at izapata@freeflightbirds.org
Do you have a young bird-lover in your life? Sign them up for our Summer Parrot Camp program! For three hours each day, they’ll learn all about parrots, interact with our resident flock, participate in parrot-themed games and crafts, and meet new friends who share their interest in birds!
Registration goes live March 1, 2027!
For more information, email Isabelle at izapata@freeflightbirds.org!
Do you have a young bird-lover in your life? Sign them up for our Summer Parrot Camp program! For three hours each day, they’ll learn all about parrots, interact with our resident flock, participate in parrot-themed games and crafts, and meet new friends who share their interest in birds!
Registration goes live March 1, 2027!
For more information, email Isabelle at izapata@freeflightbirds.org!
Join us for the afternoon session Sunday September 27th at the Sanctuary in Del Mar for another incredible Paint event Benefiting the non-profit Free Flight Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar.
We paint outside in the sanctuary amongst the Birds so it’s a really special experience!
$20 from each ticket sold will be donated directly to Free Flight Sanctuary.
Erin will pre draw the basic outlines of the bird onto the canvas, then instruct you how to paint it.
No experience necessary. All ages welcome.
You will get Step-by-Step instruction all the way through from Artist Erin.
All while supporting and enjoying the beautiful Sanctuary!
There will be snacks and drinks provided from incredible local businesses.
You may also bring your own snacks and Non-Alcoholic drinks if you’d like.
Free Flight strives to be the preeminent sanctuary and community resource for the promotion and understanding of exotic birds and the human-animal bond.
Our goals are to re-socialize and rehome companion parrots and to educate the public about their complex mental, physical and emotional needs. We offer permanent sanctuary or rehoming depending upon what is in the best interest of each bird.
We value integrity in all of our dealings with people and their companion birds. Established in 1981 as a boarding and breeding facility, Free Flight has evolved into a one-of-a-kind exotic bird sanctuary where parrots and people connect. It was benefactor Dr. Robert F. Stonebreaker’s vision to create a sanctuary for exotic companion birds that would provide a special and unique environment to raise community awareness and to encourage positive interaction with these birds. Contributing to our tropical ambience, the large pond with our friendly and beautiful koi was originally home to rescued flamingos who have since been successfully re-homed.
Free Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donate | Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
We encourage artistic freedom! You can alter the painting to fit your style and use any of our colors.
We require a 48-hour notice for cancellations/rescheduling.
Refunds must be requested within 3 days of purchase. After 3 days a credit will be given.
Check-in begins 15 minutes before the event start time. Give yourself time to park to avoid arriving late.
Painting and Vino is not responsible for paint on customer or venue property.
No outside food or drink is allowed. They are available for purchase. Wine is not included in your ticket purchase.
If you have any questions about the event, feel free to contact customer service.
Join us for the afternoon session Sunday September 27th at the Sanctuary in Del Mar for another incredible Paint event Benefiting the non-profit Free Flight Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar.
We paint outside in the sanctuary amongst the Birds so it’s a really special experience!
$20 from each ticket sold will be donated directly to Free Flight Sanctuary.
Erin will pre draw the basic outlines of the bird onto the canvas, then instruct you how to paint it.
No experience necessary. All ages welcome.
You will get Step-by-Step instruction all the way through from Artist Erin.
All while supporting and enjoying the beautiful Sanctuary!
There will be snacks and drinks provided from incredible local businesses.
You may also bring your own snacks and Non-Alcoholic drinks if you’d like.
Free Flight strives to be the preeminent sanctuary and community resource for the promotion and understanding of exotic birds and the human-animal bond.
Our goals are to re-socialize and rehome companion parrots and to educate the public about their complex mental, physical and emotional needs. We offer permanent sanctuary or rehoming depending upon what is in the best interest of each bird.
We value integrity in all of our dealings with people and their companion birds. Established in 1981 as a boarding and breeding facility, Free Flight has evolved into a one-of-a-kind exotic bird sanctuary where parrots and people connect. It was benefactor Dr. Robert F. Stonebreaker’s vision to create a sanctuary for exotic companion birds that would provide a special and unique environment to raise community awareness and to encourage positive interaction with these birds. Contributing to our tropical ambience, the large pond with our friendly and beautiful koi was originally home to rescued flamingos who have since been successfully re-homed.
Free Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donate | Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
We encourage artistic freedom! You can alter the painting to fit your style and use any of our colors.
We require a 48-hour notice for cancellations/rescheduling.
Refunds must be requested within 3 days of purchase. After 3 days a credit will be given.
Check-in begins 15 minutes before the event start time. Give yourself time to park to avoid arriving late.
Painting and Vino is not responsible for paint on customer or venue property.
No outside food or drink is allowed. They are available for purchase. Wine is not included in your ticket purchase.
If you have any questions about the event, feel free to contact customer service.
Join us Sunday July 12th at the Sanctuary in Del Mar for another incredible Paint event Benefiting the non-profit Free Flight Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar.
We paint outside in the sanctuary amongst the Birds so it’s a really special experience!
30% of all proceeds from all ticket sales donated directly to Free Flight Sanctuary.
We will paint one of the resident parrots that lives there.
Erin will pre draw the basic outlines of the bird onto the canvas, then instruct you how to paint it.
No experience necessary. All ages welcome.
You will get Step-by-Step instruction all the way through from Artist Erin.
All while supporting and enjoying the beautiful Sanctuary!
You may also bring your own snacks and Non-Alcoholic drinks if you’d like.
Free Flight strives to be the preeminent sanctuary and community resource for the promotion and understanding of exotic birds and the human-animal bond.
Our goals are to re-socialize and rehome companion parrots and to educate the public about their complex mental, physical and emotional needs. We offer permanent sanctuary or rehoming depending upon what is in the best interest of each bird.
We value integrity in all of our dealings with people and their companion birds. Established in 1981 as a boarding and breeding facility, Free Flight has evolved into a one-of-a-kind exotic bird sanctuary where parrots and people connect. It was benefactor Dr. Robert F. Stonebreaker’s vision to create a sanctuary for exotic companion birds that would provide a special and unique environment to raise community awareness and to encourage positive interaction with these birds. Contributing to our tropical ambience, the large pond with our friendly and beautiful koi was originally home to rescued flamingos who have since been successfully re-homed.
Free Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donate | Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
Join us Sunday July 12th at the Sanctuary in Del Mar for another incredible Paint event Benefiting the non-profit Free Flight Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar.
We paint outside in the sanctuary amongst the Birds so it’s a really special experience!
30% of all proceeds from all ticket sales donated directly to Free Flight Sanctuary.
We will paint one of the resident parrots that lives there.
Erin will pre draw the basic outlines of the bird onto the canvas, then instruct you how to paint it.
No experience necessary. All ages welcome.
You will get Step-by-Step instruction all the way through from Artist Erin.
All while supporting and enjoying the beautiful Sanctuary!
You may also bring your own snacks and Non-Alcoholic drinks if you’d like.
Free Flight strives to be the preeminent sanctuary and community resource for the promotion and understanding of exotic birds and the human-animal bond.
Our goals are to re-socialize and rehome companion parrots and to educate the public about their complex mental, physical and emotional needs. We offer permanent sanctuary or rehoming depending upon what is in the best interest of each bird.
We value integrity in all of our dealings with people and their companion birds. Established in 1981 as a boarding and breeding facility, Free Flight has evolved into a one-of-a-kind exotic bird sanctuary where parrots and people connect. It was benefactor Dr. Robert F. Stonebreaker’s vision to create a sanctuary for exotic companion birds that would provide a special and unique environment to raise community awareness and to encourage positive interaction with these birds. Contributing to our tropical ambience, the large pond with our friendly and beautiful koi was originally home to rescued flamingos who have since been successfully re-homed.
Free Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donate | Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
Children ages 11-14 spend a week learning about and having fun with the birds. 1-4pm, July 6-10th, 2026. ($250)
Children ages 7-10 spend a week learning about and having fun with the birds. 9am-12pm, July 6-10th, 2026. ($250)
Teens 14-17 years participate in a week-long training program in late June designed to educate them on becoming volunteer docents at the sanctuary.
Join us at the Marina Village Conference Center in San Diego for a FREE talk about all things parrot!
Join us on Sunday March 1rst at 12:30pm for a FREE family-friendly talk about all things parrot! We’ll be in the Starboard Room at the Marina Village Conference Center. See you there!
Join us Sunday February 22nd at the Sanctuary in Del Mar for another incredible Paint event Benefiting the non-profit Free Flight Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar.
We paint outside in the sanctuary amongst the Birds so it’s a really special experience!
30% of all proceeds from all ticket sales donated directly to Free Flight Sanctuary.
We will paint “Bablu”, the Jendaya conure that lives there.
Erin will pre draw the basic outlines of the bird onto the canvas, then instruct you how to paint it.
No experience necessary. All ages welcome.
You will get Step-by-Step instruction all the way through from Artist Erin.
All while supporting and enjoying the beautiful Sanctuary!
You may also bring your own snacks and Non-Alcoholic drinks if you’d like.
Free Flight strives to be the preeminent sanctuary and community resource for the promotion and understanding of exotic birds and the human-animal bond.
Our goals are to re-socialize and rehome companion parrots and to educate the public about their complex mental, physical and emotional needs. We offer permanent sanctuary or rehoming depending upon what is in the best interest of each bird.
We value integrity in all of our dealings with people and their companion birds. Established in 1981 as a boarding and breeding facility, Free Flight has evolved into a one-of-a-kind exotic bird sanctuary where parrots and people connect. It was benefactor Dr. Robert F. Stonebreaker’s vision to create a sanctuary for exotic companion birds that would provide a special and unique environment to raise community awareness and to encourage positive interaction with these birds. Contributing to our tropical ambience, the large pond with our friendly and beautiful koi was originally home to rescued flamingos who have since been successfully re-homed.
Free Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donate | Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
Join us Sunday February 22nd at the Sanctuary in Del Mar for another incredible Paint event Benefiting the non-profit Free Flight Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar.
We paint outside in the sanctuary amongst the Birds so it’s a really special experience!
30% of all proceeds from all ticket sales donated directly to Free Flight Sanctuary.
We will paint “Bablu”, the Jendaya conure that lives there.
Erin will pre draw the basic outlines of the bird onto the canvas, then instruct you how to paint it.
No experience necessary. All ages welcome.
You will get Step-by-Step instruction all the way through from Artist Erin.
All while supporting and enjoying the beautiful Sanctuary!
You may also bring your own snacks and Non-Alcoholic drinks if you’d like.
Free Flight strives to be the preeminent sanctuary and community resource for the promotion and understanding of exotic birds and the human-animal bond.
Our goals are to re-socialize and rehome companion parrots and to educate the public about their complex mental, physical and emotional needs. We offer permanent sanctuary or rehoming depending upon what is in the best interest of each bird.
We value integrity in all of our dealings with people and their companion birds. Established in 1981 as a boarding and breeding facility, Free Flight has evolved into a one-of-a-kind exotic bird sanctuary where parrots and people connect. It was benefactor Dr. Robert F. Stonebreaker’s vision to create a sanctuary for exotic companion birds that would provide a special and unique environment to raise community awareness and to encourage positive interaction with these birds. Contributing to our tropical ambience, the large pond with our friendly and beautiful koi was originally home to rescued flamingos who have since been successfully re-homed.
Free Flight is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donate | Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
Come say hello to Free Flight’s outreach team (including some of our ambassador parrots!) at this wonderful, FREE, community event hosted by the SD Nature Collective that celebrates all things with wings!
10am-1pm. Jan 25th, 2026.
Join us at the Del Mar Library at 11am on Saturday, Dec 6 for a FREE, family-friendly parrot talk and meet-and-greet sponsored by our friends at the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy (SDRVC!)
Do you like parrots? Do you like art? Better still…. do you like Parrot (and animal)-Inspired art?
Join us on Sunday, Oct.26 for a special event curated by our very own Junior Docent and aspiring art historian, Lilah D!
From 11am - 4pm, when you visit the sanctuary, local artists will be onsite to showcase their parrot-inspired creations! Enjoy perusing through this ‘pop-up’ style outdoor exhibition in our beautiful sanctuary space AND meeting and feeding our vibrant flock of resident parrots! This is sure to be a one-of-a-kind, delightful experience!
Join us at the sanctuary for a “Paint & Sip” style event, where 30% of all proceeds are donated directly back to the Free Flight resident flock!
Led by artist Erin from @paintingandvino, we’ll enjoy an Autumn afternoon together in the company of our colorful parrots, learning how to paint one of our magnificent resident avians. No experience is necessary and all ages are welcome.
Be sure to reserve your spot ASAP once the event link goes live! These events sell out FAST!
If you have a child that LOVES parrots, this is the camp for you! This summer-camp style “Parrot 101” class combines traditional camp experiences (games, arts & crafts, etc), with hands on education all about parrots. Each day has a specific theme, as we explore parrot adaptations, communication methods, diets, care & enrichment requirements, and conservation efforts around the world. Learn, have fun, make friends, and enjoy the summer days in the company of our vibrant flock of parrots!
As many participants in this camp have had prior experience in the age 7-10 camp and are a little older, we delve deeper into the topics, complete more complex projects that require critical thinking skills and teamwork, and help prepare the campers with the avian knowledge they’ll need in the future if they choose to apply for our Jr Docent program. Students in this age group are given more opportunities to develop parrot handling skills, as well.
If you have a child that LOVES parrots, this is the camp for you! This summer-camp style “Parrot 101” class combines traditional camp experiences (games, arts & crafts, etc), with hands on education all about parrots. Each day has a specific theme, as we explore parrot adaptations, communication methods, diets, care & enrichment requirements, and conservation efforts around the world. Learn, have fun, make friends, and enjoy the summer days in the company of our vibrant flock of parrots!
Join us at Free Flight for a late afternoon painting event! Artist Erin from @paintingandvino will teach everyone to paint an image of one of our beautiful resident, “Milo” the blue & gold macaw! Enjoy light refreshments generously provided by Lazy Acres of Encinitas and the company of our vibrant flock of parrots while creating art with friends, family, and loved ones!
Open to all ages! Ticket sales will open soon! Keep an eye on our social media platforms and monthly newsletters!
Each year, Free Flight takes on up to 15 new Junior Docents! These are high school students passionate about parrots and interested in gaining experience/skills in the areas of avian care & enrichment, public speaking & advocacy, community engagement & public service, and work in the nonprofit sector. Selected applicants will train with our Education & Outreach coordinator from 10am - 1pm each day this week. On Friday, as their culminating project, they will introduce their families to the sanctuary and our flock, and give an in-depth presentation on a resident parrot of their choice to the combined audience to demonstrate what they’ve learned (and their public speaking skills!).
*Applications go live in March. Please keep an eye on our monthly newsletter and social media platforms for links to the app once it goes live!
Questions? Email Isabelle at freeflightbirds@live.com
Hosted by the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy, join Free Flight and friends for a FREE summer celebration with live music, lunch, and interactive booths hosted by fabulous local nonprofits at the Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead in Escondido!
The Free Flight Outreach Team (and our avian ambassadors) will be participating in the SDBA’s Silverwood Wildlife Sanctuary for Family Day! We’re looking forward to introducing local students and their families to everything that makes parrots amazing, and to teaching everyone how to make fun (and safe!) foraging enrichment items for our flock to enjoy when we get home!
Animals on the Bay Day 2025 at the Living Coast Discovery Center is sure to be a blast! For just $5, spend the day engaging with animal ambassadors (such as Free Flight’s avian ambassadors!), meeting the LCDC’s community partners, exploring the refuge, and participating in fun, educational activities while enjoying fresh food from food trucks and more!
Visit the Free Flight Outreach Team (and some of our avian ambassadors) at the Cuyamaca College Nursery on May 3!
Cuyamaca College Nursery, a student-operated nursery, has proudly hosted the Spring Garden Festival for over 30 years. Student interns take the lead in planting and managing a diverse selection of plants, which are sold to the public at budget-friendly prices. The nursery remains a cherished community resource for plant lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike.
The Spring Garden & Butterfly Festival is BACK — and better than ever! Enjoy FREE admission to a day filled with specialty vendors, food trucks, plant sales, live music, and fun, family-friendly activities throughout the campus. We’ll be buzzing with excitement all day long, ready to celebrate spring with you and your loved ones!
Join us at the Rancho Bernardo Council’s annual earth day fair. The event will take place Sunday, April 6th, 10 a.m. through 1 p.m. at the Rancho Bernardo Community Park. Say hello to members of the Free Flight flock and enjoy approximately 30 unique vendors, a couple of craft booths for the kids and a scavenger hunt.
The San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy Presents: “Creekside Critters” Featuring Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary
Come join us for a unique, FREE opportunity to meet exotic birds up close with Free Flight!
We will learn all about the diets, behaviors, and unique adaptations of the diverse parrot species living among us and the ways we can all support global conservation efforts. This event is perfect for animal lovers of all ages, but please note that parrots can be noisy animals which may not be suitable for those who are sensitive to loud noises.
Bring your family and friends to enjoy a morning of meeting new animals and learning more about their amazing lives. At the San Diego Library - Del Mar Branch
Join staff member Isabelle at the San Diego Bird Festival for a FREE talk all about parrots! This family-friendly, 45-minute discussion will cover a variety of common parrot FAQs, such as ‘what makes a bird a parrot?,’ ‘how and why do parrots talk?,’ ‘what are the parrots we see here in San Diego?,’ ‘do parrots make good pets?,’ and ‘how can we help parrots around the world?”
After the presentation (or before), drop by the exhibitor hall to say to some of our ambassador parrots at the Free Flight outreach table!
Join us onsite as artist Erin from @paintingandvino teaches us how to paint our beautiful resident greenwing macaw “Scamp!” 30% of all proceeds will be donated to the sanctuary
Join us onsite at Free Flight as we team up with artist Erin from @paintingandvino to learn how to paint our beautiful resident greenwing macaw, Scamp!
Join us in celebrating 75 years of the San Diego Bird Alliance! (Formerly known as the San Diego Audubon Society). Visit our table to say hello to our ambassador parrots (and outreach team humans!) and help us make enrichment toys to bring back to the Free Flight flock!
Visit members of the Free Flight Outreach Flock inside the Ark Antiques shop during the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival from 11am - 2pm on Sunday, Sept. 29!
