5th Annual Swift Fest takes flight Saturday

The 5th Annual Swift Fest will be held Saturday, Aug. 27, from 4:30 – 10 p.m. in downtown Jonestown.

Jonestown hosts Swift Fest to celebrate the Chimney Swifts, migratory birds that make the city their home during their migration. Swift Fest is a fun family event and appeals to anyone with an interest in birds, wildlife and nature. Festival activities include live music, nature-themed vendors, food, nature games, and activities for children of all ages.

A highlight of the festival is the swifts’ evening return to their cistern home located downtown, a tornadic-like sight that is fascinating to see. The cistern is set in downtown Jonestown behind the Jones and Carter Realty office, the owners of the cistern. The family has long had ties to the City and their office is more than 100 years old. It once served as the original ranch house to which the cistern supplied water. A nearby Jonestown resident that has lived nearby since 1961 verified that the chimney swifts have been using the cistern as a roost ever since she has been there.

“The city recognizes the importance of the birds to the quality of life of the community and hopes to create greater awareness of, and protection for, these amazing birds that have chosen to live here part of the year,” officials said.

This event is sponsored by the City of Jonestown, the Friends of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Swift Fest grounds are located at 18649 Ranch to Market Road 1431, in the heart of Jonestown.