As bugs begin to emerge with the start of spring, we’re highlighting what makes them an important part of so many ecosystems, and why we should celebrate—rather than be “creeped” out by—all the cool things they do!
Learn about insects (and other types of creepy-crawlies!) at the following interactive stations throughout the Museum.
FREE with admission! Plus, kids 5 & under enjoy free Museum admission for the day!
Date and Time
Saturday, March 29, 2025
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Edible Insects
Did you know that billions of people around the world eat insects as part of their diet? Learn about this sustainable, responsible practice, and try some tasty insects for yourself!
Located on the Ground Floor across from the Cafe.
Young Learners: Storytime & Activities
Families with young children (recommended ages 3-8) are welcome to stop by our Early Learning Classroom for hands-on activities (11 a.m. - 3 p.m.) and storytimes (listed below) centered around insects and those who study them.
- 11 a.m. book: Junebug: No Life Too Small
- 12:30 p.m. book: Buzzing with Questions: The Inquisitive Mind of Charles Henry Turner
- 2 p.m. book: Junebug: No Life Too Small
Located in the Ground Floor Early Learning Classroom.
BUg PATROL
Want to meet (and touch) some of MPM’s living residents? From walking sticks to cockroaches, learn about the Museum’s live insects and arthropods while even getting to handle a few yourself!
Located on the First Floor in Bugs Alive!
Heroes Around the Home
It’s a bug’s world, and we’re just living in it. Learn about the bugs in and around your home, how they help us, and how you can become a community scientist in this choose-your-own-adventure-style activity.
Located on the First Floor in the Puelicher Butterfly Wing Kids Zone.
BUTTERFLY STOP-BY
Butterflies may be beautiful, but that's not why they're important! Stop by to get up close and personal with real butterfly specimens and learn some of the things that make them special.
Located on the First Floor in front of the Butterfly Vivarium.
MOTH mayhem
MPM’s Zoology student researcher will exhibit a dazzling array of moth specimens from both Central and South America that possess unique defenses to protect themselves from predators like bats and birds.
Located on the First Floor near Sense of Wonder.
LIFE up close
Step into the lab and get to know the world of insects up close—very close! Use microscopes to learn about what makes insects special and important.
Located on the First Floor in Rainforest.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT: XERCES SOCIETY
The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation is visiting MPM to talk to visitors about who they are, what they do, and how you can be a part of protecting the lives and habitats of invertebrates around us!
Located on the First Floor by Sense of Wonder.