Alpine, California made national history when it was designated as America’s FIRST Community Wildlife Habitat on May 1, 1998.

The certification, proclaimed by the National Wildlife Federation, was the result of the efforts of dozens of businesses and scores of residents who have each done a small part to provide habitats for hummingbirds, butterflies and songbirds. The project is known as "Sage & Songbirds."

Alpine gardens have been enhanced with beautiful berries, colorful sages and other nectar-rich plants to provide for the basic needs of area winged wildlife. Several of these gardens are featured during a three-day, self-guided tour, held the first weekend in May. Ticket-holders may visit gardens throughout the weekend (one visit per site.) Click here to read about the gardens of the 2012 tour.

Each year, a “Sage & Songbirds Festival” is held the first weekend in May, and includes garden tours, educational seminars, specialty vendors, entertainment and much more. The 2012 theme is "Waterwise & Butterflies!", and the event was held May 5-6, 2012.

A highlight of each year's event is CHIRP's very popular butterfly release, held at the Festival site, Viejas Outlets. Live native butterflies are released at 2 pm, both Saturday and Sunday during the Festival. Admission is free and we welcome you to join us!

The Sage & Songbirds mission is to make Alpine a town unforgettable to visitors, and endlessly enjoyable to those who live here. Sage & Songbirds is a project of CHIRP.

We invite you to come celebrate with us! The 2013 event is set for May 3-5.