Thursday, September 11th
Birdwatching in the Gardens
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Join HC for
Birdwatching in the Gardens
Mark your calendars!
Grab your binoculars to join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for free, guided bird walks around the Hampton-Preston Gardens to learn about the many local and migratory birds in Columbia. With the Hampton-Preston gardens playing host to over 100 bird species over the course of the year, participants will learn how to identify birds by sight, sound, and behavior. This program is seasonal, and offered during peak birding times throughout the year, concentrating on fall and spring migration periods.
Birdwatching in the Gardens are free events, however, registration is required. Each birdwatching is capped at 25 participants. See individual event listings for full details.
Learn about Warblers
Discover how to bring vibrant feathered friends to your backyard!
Watch our latest webinar, where John shares tips on attracting these colorful creatures and enjoying their beauty up close.
About John Tjaarda
As HC’s "Resident Bird Nerd,” John Tjaarda leads the organization’s monthly Birdwatching in the Gardens program. As the Director of Development for The Big Red Barn Retreat, Tjaarda emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeks to showcase birding as an accessible tool—or just a fun hobby.
John began birding in 2011 after taking a job teaching bird study over the summer. After a short break between 2014-2018 John returned with a vengeance to the bird world and has been trying to see them all ever since.
Follow John on Instagram at @birdwalksc. He’s also available for private bird walks at birdwalk.sc@gmail.com
Upcoming Birdwatching & Other Garden Events
See All Events11 Sep
Thursday, September 11th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Grab your binoculars to join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for a free, guided bird walk around the Hampton-Preston Gardens to learn about the many local and migratory birds in Columbia. With the Hampton-Preston gardens playing host to over 100 bird species over the course of the year...
23 Sep
Tuesday, September 23rd: 5 — 7 p.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Performers from the South Carolina Philharmonic will join Historic Columbia to present a beautiful concert of light classics in the gardens at the Hampton-Preston Mansion. Please plan to arrive any time after 5:00 p.m. The concert will begin at 6:00 p.m. and last an hour. Bring your own blanket or...
25 Sep
Thursday, September 25th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Grab your binoculars to join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for a free, guided bird walk around the Hampton-Preston Gardens to learn about the many local and migratory birds in Columbia. With the Hampton-Preston gardens playing host to over 100 bird species over the course of the year...
09 Oct
Thursday, October 9th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Grab your binoculars to join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for a free, guided bird walk around the Hampton-Preston Gardens to learn about the many local and migratory birds in Columbia. With the Hampton-Preston gardens playing host to over 100 bird species over the course of the year...
30 Oct
Thursday, October 30th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Grab your binoculars to join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for a free, guided bird walk around the Hampton-Preston Gardens to learn about the many local and migratory birds in Columbia. With the Hampton-Preston gardens playing host to over 100 bird species over the course of the year...
04 Nov
Tuesday, November 4th: 5 — 7 p.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Performers from the South Carolina Philharmonic will join Historic Columbia to present a beautiful concert of light classics in the gardens at the Hampton-Preston Mansion. Please plan to arrive any time after 5:00 p.m. The concert will begin at 6:00 p.m. and last an hour. Bring your own blanket or...
Birding Blogs
Soaring to New Heights
In January 2024, Historic Columbia introduced its Birdwatching in the Gardens program—a monthly bird walk that has taken flight as a standout success during its first year. Typically held on the second Thursday of each month in the lush gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion, this free, guided program offers participants...