The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ) invites families and nature enthusiasts to the annual Incredible Insect Festival on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 10 AM to 5 PM at the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Nature Center in Quechee, Vermont. The event is included with general admission.
From caterpillars and pollinators to aquatic invertebrates and beetles, the Incredible Insect Festival offers a full day of hands-on exploration into the world of insects and the vital roles they play in our ecosystems. Through live animal encounters, demonstrations, guided walks, crafts, and interactive programs, guests of all ages will discover why the smallest creatures on Earth matter most.
“So much is happening around us every day that is almost invisible,” said Mya Wiles, Environmental Educator at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ. “This event brings those tiny creatures to center stage, and we love learning about them alongside our visitors.”
Featured Stations
These stations run all day:
The Caterpillar Lab brings a stunning collection of native New England caterpillars for up-close viewing with a magnifying camera. Local beekeeper Peter Hadeka will be on hand throughout the day to share the inner workings of a hive — with live bees on display and fresh honey for sale. The Black River Action Team will introduce visitors to aquatic invertebrates from local rivers and ponds and explain how the public can help protect these freshwater habitats.
Guests can also explore Bugs of the Canopy Walk, where educators guide visitors through the treetop world of insects, and join Bug Safaris in the meadow to catch and identify the critters hiding in the grass. Young visitors can channel their inner entomologist at Gettin’ Buggy Crafts, where they can color, draw, and design their own insects.
Program Highlights
Here are just a few of the timed programs guests can enjoy at the Festival.
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Buggin’ Out! – What is an insect? Test your bug knowledge and turn yourself into an aerial insectivore as you pretend to hunt in the meadow for bugs and then meet a real insect-eating raptor! Great for younger learners.
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM and 12:30 – 1:00 PM: Invertebrates with Uncharted Wild – This up-close encounter will be sure to delight folks of all ages with a collection of invertebrates. Learn how spiders aren’t insects and how these tiny creatures survive in this big big world.
ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ looks forward to welcoming members and new visitors alike at this year’s Incredible Insect Festival!