Sandhill cranes return to the valley, and fans flock to Lodi for annual fest honoring them

AS THE SANDHILL cranes make their fall return to the wetlands of the San Joaquin Valley, the festival celebrating the migratory birds celebrated its 25^th anniversary this past weekend.  

Presented by the Lodi Sandhill Crane Association and the City of Lodi, the annual Sandhill Crane Festival was a paradise for bird lovers and enthusiasts who got to spend their weekend learning about birds and especially the sandhills, make origami cranes, appreciate the artwork depicting the birds, purchase binoculars for their birdwatching tours and more.