BugFest 2024 banner - Leopard moth and text on blue background

Saturday, September 14, 2024

10am–7pm*

As the Museum’s biggest and buggiest event of the year, BugFest is dedicated to educating and engaging the public about science and the wonders of the natural world. Explore over 100 exhibits, from hands-on activities designed to ignite curiosity and appreciation for these amazing animals, to interactions with entomologists and other scientists who will guide you through the intricate world of arthropods, offering insights into their behaviors, adaptations, and ecological significance.

This year, BugFest shines a spotlight on the order Lepidoptera, which comprises the butterflies and moths. Delight in children’s activities designed to inspire the next generation of bug enthusiasts, observe a variety of live arthropods, browse vendor stalls for arthropod-themed merchandise, and celebrate the extraordinary diversity of arthropods. Join us as we celebrate butterflies, moths, and the incredible world of Arthropods at BugFest!

*During the Evening Insectival (5pm-7pm), Jones Street, the Nature Research Center, and the Nature Exploration Center’s 2nd-4th floors will be closed. Edenton Street, the Bicentennial Plaza, and the 1st floor of the Nature Exploration Center will remain open until 7pm.


14 de Septiembre, 2024

El evento del Museo más grande del año, BugFest está dedicado a educar e involucrar al público en la Ciencia y el Mundo Natural. Nuestros visitantes podrán participar en más de 100 exhibiciones, manualidades, juegos y actividades mientras interactúan con entomólogos y otros científicos, a la vez que aprenden sobre el fascinante mundo de los artrópodos.

Este año, como tema principal, BugFest destaca a las mariposas y a las polillas. Disfruta de actividades infantiles diseñadas para inspirar a la próxima generación de entusiastas de los insectos, observa una variedad de artrópodos vivos, recorre los puestos de los vendedores en busca de productos temáticos de artrópodos, y celebra la extraordinaria diversidad de artrópodos. ¡Únete a nosotros mientras celebramos las mariposas, las polillas y el increíble mundo de los artrópodos en el BugFest!


Become a Museum Member!

Our Members make events like this possible. Learn how you can get amazing perks at BugFest, including priority parking, fast-track line to Café Insecta, and a free BugFest T-shirt when you join or renew your Museum membership from September 1 to 14, with code “Butterfly24.”


BugFest is presented by:

With additional support from:

Rise Pest Management
In-kind support provided by Armstrong’s Cricket Farm Georgia, Pepsi Bottling Ventures and Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton-Downtown Raleigh.