The birds have been back in town for a couple of weeks, surely but surely arriving in time for Homer’s celebration of their existence. Now it’s our turn to show up on the shores, binoculars and cameras in hand, to pay our respects to the many species of incredible wildlife that choose to spend their summer with us. Whether you’re on the hunt for a peek at your first puffin or feel like staring down a crane in a lagoon, the weekend is chock full of great opportunities and lots of wonderful people to share them with. 

So every year when the Shorebird Fest rolls around, the Betster knows there are some who scoff at the passion some birders have for, well, for birding. They brave the wind. They ignore the rain. They’re focused, oh so focused. Here’s the Betster’s advice: seeing is believing. If you haven’t succumbed to bird fever, this is the weekend to immerse yourself in birds. Register for some Shorebird events. Get to know some birders. Enjoy. Because you just never know what you might see.

BEST FLIGHT AND SIGHT BET: The annual Shorebird Festival runs from today through Sunday. The festival celebrates the more than 130 migratory bird species that have returned to Homer, like sandpipers and dunlins and plovers — all kinds — and dowitchers and oh so much more. Don’t miss out on the variety of events for those with birds on the brain. Visit kachemakshorebird.org to see all the events going on over the weekend.

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BEST GOOD SAMARITAN BET: Join forces with the U.S. Postal Service to help feed those in need — the holidays are not the only time families are hungry and in need of kindness. The Homer and Anchor Point post offices will be taking donations for the Stamp Out Hunger: National Food Drive on Saturday. Donations of non-perishable items can be dropped off in your local post office’s lobby or left in your mailbox before pickup.

BEST NOT THAT SAME OL’ SONG AND DANCE BET: Catch a show put on by the Harbor School of Music and Dance’s graduating and advanced piano students at 7 p.m. Friday at the Mariner Theatre. The hour-long recital is free for the general public to attend. If you’re hungry for more, follow it up with the school’s spring dance recital  at 3 p.m. Sunday, also at the Mariner Theatre. The recital will feature ballet pointe, lyrical hip hop and creative dances from students of all ages. For more information, call 907-235-6705. 

BEST GET YOUR KICKS BET: The 2016 Spring Migration Run starts at 9 a.m. next to the fishing hole. The certified 5K course takes runners to the base of the Spit along the bike path. If the sight of the shorebirds makes you feel like flying, or you just need an excuse to pull out your sneakers, pre-register by Friday, May 13 at 7 p.m. Day of event registration will be available from 8-8:45 a.m. at the start line, but a $5 race day fee will be applied. The early runner saves money for post-race celebrations.