Bug Fest 2010

Saturday and Sunday, August 14 and 15, 10 am – 5 pm
Free with general admission

The Academy is Bee Central this summer!

This year marks the 200th birthday of Lorenzo Langstroth, the Philadelphia native and Academy member who invented the beehive design that revolutionized beekeeping around the world. Celebrate Langstroth's contribution, the importance of honeybees and other pollinating insects, and all things “buggy” at this year's Bug Fest.

The Amazing Bee Beard: Witness Steve “the Beeman” Conlon as he grows a beard of bees.
Langstroth's Legacy: Examine Lorenzo Langstroth publications and artifacts, and learn how his invention revolutionized beekeeping.
Meet Local Beekeepers: Sample local honey, look into a demonstration hive, and find out what it takes to be an urban beekeeper.
Bug Cooking and Tasting: Bee larvae and honey are the star ingredients of Cajun chef Zack Lemann’s insect cuisine this year. Come prepared to give your taste buds a thrill.
Bee-friendly Gardening: Learn how to help pollinators in your own garden.
Flower Power: Play this game and discover the different ways flowers advertise to bees and other pollinators.
The Hive: Shop for “buggy” items, buy honey, or get an insect tattoo.
Dancin’ with the Honeybees: Join master beekeeper Cliff Sunflower for some waggle dancin’ fun.
Off the Menu: Play this matching game and discover which bugs help us pollinate our favorite foods.

Returning Favorites

Spineless Wonders: Examine live stick insects, tarantulas, vinegaroons, and more. Touch them if you dare.
Bug Walk: Go outside with an entomologist and collect wild insects.
Meet Real Entomologists: Talk with scientists from the Academy's Entomology Department and members of the American Entomological Society.
Roach Race 500: Cheer your favorite roach on to victory and learn what makes roaches run.
Got Bugs?: Learn how to collect and pin insects during this hands-on demonstration; insects, pins, and scientific labels are provided.
Museum Insects: Examine specimens from the collections from the Academy's Entomology Department and the American Entomological Society.
Anthropomorphic Arthropods of Henry McCook: The Academy Library is showcasing this classic by Henry McCook (1837-1911). Come see insects like you've never seen them before, alongside a few antique bug-collecting tools of trade.
Bug Ball: Join the activities, games, and fun for all at the Bug Ball.
Ask the Entomologist Booth: Ask an entomologist that question that's been bugging you.
Creepy Crawly Crafts: Make a bug pooter (a bug collecting tool that vacuums) and a bug box to take home.