Thank you for making Festival of Hearts a resounding success.
You showed up with profound love for the next generation!
Together we explored the sense of sound.
We leaned into conversation—sharing about ourselves and listening deeply. We used mindful listening to find belonging within Northwest birdsong. And we were captivated by special guests from the Port Townsend Symphony Orchestra playing “The Lark Ascending” by Ralph Vaughan Williams.
Chef Arran Stark dazzled our taste buds with a Bird’s Delight tasting plate.
Together we built support for young people.
You helped us raise more than $43,000 that will provide mindful self-compassion programs to youth across the Olympic Peninsula, regardless of their ability to pay.
Thank you for filling the room with friends and expanding our community of support!
Special Moments Captured
All Photos by Deja View Photography
2026 Featured Presenters
Sabrina McQuillen Hill, qʷidiččaʔa·tx̌
Sabrina McQuillen Hill, qʷidiččaʔa·tx̌ (Makah Nation), has deep ancestral ties to the Port Townsend area since time immemorial. She is a dedicated mother, climate and social justice activist who uses her voice and creative engagement to challenge systems, amplify voices, and inspire action rooted in equity and community. She is joined by her two children, Scott and Mary.
Matt Weldy, Audubon Society
Matt Weldy is a scientist working for the National Audubon Society who uses remote acoustic sampling tools and machine learning to better understand bird distributions and abundance. He is working to expand conservation programs that incentivize private landowners to manage land with "bird friendly" practices. Recently, his work, in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service and other partners, has been used to support conservation and management of northern spotted owls, marbled murrelets, and songbird communities across the Pacific Northwest.
Matt will partner with Benji Project instructor Eden Trenor to guide guests through a sound meditation.
Members of the Port Townsend Symphony Orchestra
This talented sextet has been busy rehearsing a special musical piece just for Festival of Hearts!
The group includes Karl Perry (Solo Violin), Katie Penhallegon (First Violin), Kristin Smith (Second Violin), Tyrone Beatty (Viola), Kyle Campbell (Cello), and Chuck Easton (Bass).
Arran Stark, Chef, Jefferson Healthcare
Arran is returning for his third Festival of Hearts appearance. He has embraced each year’s sensory theme with curiosity and creativity. His creations are always on theme and never disappoint.
This year, enjoy a clever bird inspired tasting plate, Bird’s Delight.
2026 Event Sponsors
Generous Heart and Caring Heart Sponsors:
Beverages provided by:
2025 Festival of Hearts Photos
All Photos by Deja View Photography
2024 Festival of Hearts Photos
