Two populations of Monarch butterflies call the United States home. Those living west of the Rockies migrate to the coast of central and southern California. The journey is hazardous and many never make it. In fact, the Western population of these migrating butterflies is at greatest risk of extinction, having declined by an estimated 99.9%. With the shortening days of October, the new winter generation of Monarchs migrates south. By November, most are sheltering in trees stretching from the San Francisco Bay Area south to San Diego.
Join us to welcome the Monarchs back to Ojai with a series of wonderful events that culminate in Monarch Fest on Friday October 18th, 2024, at the Taft Amphitheatre with food, libations, local Monarch advocates and music by Sonic Butterfly, a 60ft long-string harp and instrument of transformation designed by local Ojai artist, Andrea Brook. Andrea will install the 26 strings among the Heritage Oaks at the Taft Amphitheatre expanding the instrument out over the audience, creating a full sensory experience. Enjoy the gardens, learn how to create your own Monarch habitat at your home by Chris Amendt of NativeMonarchs.org.
**10% of all proceeds from the Monarch Fest event series will go directly to support NativeMonarchs.org, a local organization created by Chris Amendt to increase the supply of California Native Asclepias (Milkweed) varieties and other California native nectar plants for large-scale Monarch conservation programs and restoration projects**
Ticket Options:
General Admission (no food): $30
All Inclusive Food & Drink Ticket: $55
Children under 12: $10
5pm doors open with tables and wares from Monarch Fest Presenters, food and drink tickets for draft pours of local brews!
6pm-8pm Presentation by Chris Amendt of NativeMonarchs.org followed by music by Sonic Butterfly & Friends
