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The Wildlife Center of Virginia will celebrate the 18th hatch-day of Buddy, the Center's resident Bald Eagle ambassador, with a public event at the Ridgeview Park Amphitheater in Waynesboro on Sunday, April 26, from 3-6 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public.
Buddy has served as the Wildlife Center's ambassador since 2010, helping educate thousands of visitors each year about Bald Eagles and the importance of wildlife conservation. During the hatch-day celebration, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about Buddy's story and see Buddy up close during a special presentation.
The event will also include hatch-day-themed activities, treats, and refreshments. Buddy-themed cookies will be available from Bonobos Bakery, and Nolia's Lemonade will offer beverages for purchase.
"This event is a chance to celebrate Buddy and the impact he has had over nearly two decades as an ambassador," said Connor Gillespie, the Center's Director of Outreach. "We're thrilled to share his hatch-day with the community."
Guests are encouraged to support Buddy's ongoing care through a hatch-day donation. Members of the public are asked to RSVP in advance through the Center's Eventbrite registration page.
In addition to the main event, the Wildlife Center is partnering with local Waynesboro businesses for a "Buddy Bingo" weekend from Friday, April 24 through Sunday, April 26. Participants can stop by a variety of local shops, cafés, and downtown favorites during their regular business hours to complete a bingo card. Completed bingo cards may be turned in for a prize at the hatch-day celebration. Some locations will also donate a portion of proceeds or offer special Buddy-themed treats in support of the Center's work.
To view the complete list of participating businesses and print your Buddy Bingocard, visit the Center's event page: https://wildlifecenter.org/news-events/events/2026/buddys-18th-hatch-day-celebration.
The celebration will take place at Ridgeview Park Amphitheater, located at 700 S. Magnolia Ave in Waynesboro. The event will be held rain or shine, unless severe weather poses a safety risk.
For additional information and event details, visit the Wildlife Center of Virginia'swebsite.
