Video of the 2026 Spring Waterfowl Release in Great Falls Will Make Your Day

Ever since I've arrived in Great Falls in August of 2025, I've done my best to immerse myself in the community's staple events. Most recently, I caught wind of the annual waterfowl release that happens every spring and I just had to see it for myself.

Great Falls Waterfowl Release 2026

When I arrived at Gibson Park, I was taken back by the amount of people "flocking" (sorry, I had to) to Gibson Pond to catch a glimpse of the annual waterfowl release.

I figured it would draw a crowd, but I'll be honest - I didn't think it would be that popular!

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The excitement was contagious though and I embraced every part of it. Both adults and children eagerly waited to see the ducks and geese return to the pond following their winter stay at the famous "Honker Hilton" on the north end of the pond.

Great Falls Park and Rec were set up, offering up waterfowl-appropriate foods for people to share with the birds. Walmart was also in attendance, handing out goodies that the children seemed to enjoy.

Waterfowl Return to Gibson Pond

It didn't take long for the trucks loaded with waterfowl to come strolling through the park and onto the ramp at the pond. One truck unloaded the birds followed by a second to roars and cheers from the people in attendance.

It was one of the most wholesome and heartwarming experiences I think I've had since moving to Great Falls.

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To see the community rally behind something so simple, yet so fulfilling was something that felt personal - like we're all one big family. And look, I know that sounds weird or even cliche, but you won't hear about things like this in the national media.

It also felt like everyone there was familiar with one another, again, an experience I feel like you can only get in a town like Great Falls.

Below, you'll find a video showcasing the sights and sounds of the release. Below that, you'll see images of the release you won't see in the video, including photos of those that brought some extra flare to the release to help make it extra memorable for the community.