A Celebration of Swans
A Celebration of Swans festival takes place from April 1 to 30 every year. Visit the Swan Haven Interpretive Centre in April each year to welcome spring and witness the mass migration of thousands of swans, ducks and geese.
Swan Haven Interpretive Centre
The Swan Haven Interpretive Centre is closed for the season.
The centre overlooks M’Clintock Bay in Marsh Lake. In spring, waterbirds rely on the bay's early open water to feed, rest and stay safe.
The outdoor area, including the picnic tables and viewing deck, remain open to the public. Keep noise to a minimum and respect the neighbours.
Location and parking
Swan Haven is located at 58 Swan Haven Drive, Marsh Lake, in the North M'Clintock Bay subdivision. There is limited angle parking in front of the building as well as parallel parking along Swan Haven Drive. Drive slowly; this is a residential area and there are often loose dogs.
Events
The Swan Haven Interpretive Centre is closed for the season.
Arts at Swan Haven
Festival poster
Every year, the Government of Yukon, with support from Yukon Energy, produces a collectible poster featuring an art piece celebrating spring and the arrival of swans. See previous posters.
Posters are distributed across the Yukon to raise awareness about A Celebration of Swans. This is annual festival takes place during the month of April at the Swan Haven Interpretive Centre.
Artist residency
The Government of Yukon and the Yukon Arts Centre were pleased to offer an artist residency in 2026. Check back in early 2027 for details about future opportunities.
Journey to Swan Haven: an audio tour for your drive
Heading to Swan Haven? Journey to Swan Haven is the perfect companion for your drive. Listen to this 13-minute audio segment and discover why thousands of Trumpeter Swans stop at Swan Haven every spring.
Available April 1 to 30.
Listen here or on the Yukon Sites & Sights app (starting April 1).
Swan count
Most swans have left Swan Haven for their breeding grounds, but some are still arriving and resting. The most up-to-date bird counts can be found on ebird.org (zoom into Marsh Lake—M'Clintock Bay).
Activities for students
School programs
School programs are an important part of spring activities at Swan Haven. Hundreds of school children visit with their classes to participate in hands-on activities and games, in a spectacular outdoor classroom.
These popular programs are available throughout April for Grades 2, 3, 5 and 9. Programming is provided in partnership with the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. Visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve’s program page for teaching resources and to book a visit.