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.

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 2010 theme is "The Hills are Alive with Butterflies". Please click here for details about this year's event.

A highlight of the event is CHIRP's very popular butterfly release, to be held again this year at the Festival site, Viejas Outlet Center. Live native butterflies will be released at noon, 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! This year's event is set for April 30-May 2, 2010 (Garden Tour dates are April 30-May 2 and Festival dates are May 1-2.)