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Garden Photography- Beginner Macro Photography 2025 

Whether you’re new to photography, looking to sharpen your skills, or just love capturing the big world of tiny creatures, this class is perfect for you! Professional insect macro photographer Bob Krugmire will guide you through the essentials and share tips and tricks to elevate your photos. This 2-hour-long outdoor adventure will take place in the vibrant Allison Community Gardens at Semper Farms and covers both traditional cameras and cell phone photography.

General Admission Timed Entry Tickets

Tickets only valid for the date selected.

Front Doors lock at 4:15 p.m.

Tickets must be reserved for children under 2.

Please see Visitor Information or FAQ page for more information.

Looking for the best time to visit Butterfly Pavilion? View our live occupancy tracker!

Girl Scout Day

Girl Scout Day is April 12th 10 am – 12 pm

Girl Scout Day Includes:

Programming to get Pre-K, Kindergarten, and First Grade girls excited about joining Girl Scouts!

Stations with crafts, activities, and discussions all about invertebrates.

Access to all of our indoor and outdoor exhibits after 11 am!

Girl Scout Day Cost:

Adult (Non-member) : $14

Child (Non-member, 2-12): $10

Members: FREE

Children under 2: FREE

*includes general admission as well as extra scout activities.

Please note:

Pre-registration is recommended. Walk ups may be accepted but entrance is not guaranteed.

Homeschool Day

Homeschoolers and your families, these days are reserved especially for you! Take advantage of these exciting opportunities to explore our engaging exhibits and interact with thousands of invertebrates! Each Homeschool Day incorporates themed activities great for all ages. These include various invertebrate investigations, talks with real scientists, fun crafts, and more.

12/18/24: Nature's Glow -Discover the mesmerizing world of bioluminescent and biofluorescent invertebrates and their glowing beauty. This event will include engaging classes, hands-on crafts, and exciting activities that illuminate the science behind these radiant creatures.

2/11/25: Artistic Adaptations - Discover how invertebrates use camouflage, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns for survival! Explore these fascinating adaptations through hands-on activities, crafts, and engaging lessons. 

3/6/25: Invertebrates in Literature and Art - Dive into the world of bugs in art and literature! Discover how invertebrates inspire stories and artwork and meet a special guest author to explore the creative connection between nature and literature.

4/23/25: Pollinator Protectors - Celebrate pollinators and learn how they support our world and how you can support them! Learn more about invertebrate pollinators and discover how you can contribute to community science efforts to help these vital animals thrive.

Introduction to Bumble Bee Ecology, Identification, and Conservation with Dr. John Mola  

Become An Expert In All Things Bumble Bees with Bumble Bee Expert Dr. John Mola.

The Butterfly Pavilion is proud to offer this chance to learn in-person about bumble bee biology, ecology, and conservation from Dr. John Mola, the lead researcher of the Forest and Rangeland Stewardship Bee Ecology and Extension Lab at Colorado State University. Participants will acquire the skills to identify the Colorado-native bumble bee species in their backyards and cultivate the key plants that help these bees flourish in Front Range cities. This workshop will include hands-on opportunities to interact with pinned specimens and – weather permitting -- with live specimens as well!

Schedule:

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Lecture covering Bumble Bees key characteristics, diversity, life cycles, and ecological roles.

12:00 PM - 12:30 PM: Lunch break. (Please pack a lunch)

12:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Field trip or lab activity providing hands-on experience related to the lecture content.

Invertebrates and Music Walk – Halloween Edition

Join us for a special Halloween edition of "Invertebrates and Music Walks" as we explore the rainforest after dark. Guided by naturalist Dave Southerland and accompanied by eerie music, we'll use flashlights to discover orb weavers and other night time creatures. The adventure concludes in the Butterfly Pavilion's Discovery Gardens, where we'll search for nighttime invertebrates amidst the Halloween atmosphere. Don't miss this unique journey into the mysterious world of the night!

Partners:

-Dave Southerland

-Boulder Philharmonic

Details:

- Enjoy easy walks along trails suitable for all levels.

- Walks take place in low-light conditions.

- Dress appropriately for the outdoors with breathable clothing and walking shoes.

Invertebrates and Music Walks 2025

Why have composers been fascinated by invertebrates, and how have they tried to capture them in their music? You are invited to ""Invertebrates and Music Walks,"" a collaboration between naturalist Dave Sutherland, Boulder Philharmonic, and Butterfly Pavilion. Join us for a stroll through our tropical rainforest, while listening to classical music selections inspired by the world of invertebrates. Led by Dave, immerse yourself in curated compositions as butterflies flutter around us. Conclude your journey outside in Butterfly Pavilion's Discovery Gardens, where specially crafted music invites exploration of invertebrates' lives. Let curiosity guide you through this fusion of sound and nature, where every step reveals a new melody and every encounter unveils unseen beauty.

 

Partners:

 

Dave Southerland

 

Boulder Philharmonic

 

Details:

 

• These walks are of low difficulty but involve trail walking.

• Please dress appropriately for the outdoor environment, including breathable clothes, sturdy walking shoes, and sunscreen

LGBTQ+ Inclusive Guided Meditation

BConnected Colorado is excited to co-host this guided meditation event with the Butterfly Pavilion! Immerse yourself in the serenity of Butterfly Pavilions beautiful space, surrounded by lush tropical plants, a flowing stream, and the gentle presence of live butterflies. In this meditation, we’ll focus on deepening our connection to our bodies, our community, and the earth.

BConnected Colorado is a social club dedicated to building an inclusive, welcoming community for bisexual and queer individuals. This meditation is designed to foster a sense of belonging and connection. Together, we'll explore grounding practices to align with the energy of nature, the support of our community, and the strength of our individual bodies.

Why Attend?

- Reconnect with yourself and the earth in a beautiful natural setting.

- Build a sense of community and belonging with other Bi/Queer individuals.

- Experience a moment of peace and healing during the busy holiday season.

More information:

- Allies are welcome!

- Rainforest temperature varies between 65 and 85 degrees.

- This class is intended for adults, but children over 13 may attend with a parent.

Fee: - $10 Member - $12 Non-Member

Mini-Worlds Bee Workshop with The Terrorium Shop

Create Your Own Preserved Mini World in an Exclusive Workshop!

Unleash your creativity and craft a one-of-a-kind miniature ecosystem in this hands-on class led by The Terrorium Shop—a Denver-based natural history store renowned for its expertise in natural preservation.

Design and assemble a stunning preserved display that captures the beauty of nature. From vibrant moss to delicate dried florals, every element is thoughtfully provided for you to build a unique, tiny world with your personal touch—a keepsake to cherish for years to come.

What’s Included:

- One 2"" x 3"" glass dome with cork base

- A large, preserved carpenter bee specimen

- Dried floral accents, crystal, and moss

Join us for an inspiring session that blends art, science, and natural beauty—no experience needed!

Mountain States Bumble Bee Atlas Training Workshop

Join us for a Mountain States Bumble Bee Atlas Training Workshop and become a community scientist! Help map and conserve bumble bees across the region by learning survey techniques and data collection methods.

What to Expect:

- A brief presentation on bumble bee diversity, life cycles, and pollinator conservation.

- Hands-on training in netting, photographing, and releasing bumble bees.

- Guidance on Atlas protocols and how to contribute data.

- All survey supplies provided.

- Come prepared for outdoor fieldwork (walking shoes, sun protection, water, etc.).

About the Mountain States Bumble Bee Atlas

Bumble bees are vital pollinators, supporting both wild ecosystems and agriculture. Colorado is home to a rich diversity of species, but many are in decline. By joining the Mountain States Bumble Bee Atlas, you’ll help track their populations and contribute to critical conservation efforts.

As a volunteer, you'll:

- Catch, photograph, and release bumble bees.

- Conduct habitat surveys.

- Upload data to Bumble Bee Watch to support scientific research.

Get involved today! Learn more at BumbleBeeAtlas.org

Native Bees of the Rocky Mountain Region

Discover the Front Range’s Fantastic Diversity of Native Bees with Certified Naturalist Ryan Bartlett.

This class will highlight the origins, diversity, and preferred plants of the over 1000 different species of bees that call the Rocky Mountains home. Certified arborist, naturalist and plant pathologist Ryan Bartlett of Colorado Native Bee will provide an engaging lecture on the conservation of these vital pollinators. Weather permitting, participants will also head outdoors to catch some of the colorful bees that frequent Butterfly Pavilion’s beautiful Discovery Garden.

Photo Hour

Relish a quiet hour of morning light photography in the tropical rainforest before open our doors to the public. Snap photos of beautiful butterflies and exotic tropical flowers in the morning light. Sessions are offered monthly and begin at 8:00am.

Cost:  $10 for non-members, $8.00 for members. Note: This session is self-guided. Participants supply own equipment.

Plants for Pollinators

Flowers are more than fine, but which plants truly serve the needs of pollinators? Meet some plant powerhouses, how to choose the right ones for the right spaces, and how to get your hands on the best material.

 

Pollinator Garden Design

What looks good to human and insect eyes? Design your own habitat garden! Explore principles of aesthetic design, tool use, and what a truly pollinator-friendly design should include.

Pollinator Garden Maintenance & Care

What does it take to have a garden space that is truly pollinator-friendly? Explore techniques and approaches in encouraging your garden to thrive as it’s own mini-ecosystem, and reap the benefits of less money, time, and resources spent on your space. Learn the do’s and don’ts of clean up, the signs and symptoms of different visitors to your garden, and the magic in embracing a little bit of “mess”.

Pollinator Garden Preparation & Planting

So you want a pollinator garden... but how do you make it a reality? Creating a healthy garden goes beyond pretty plant choices and where to place them. Learn the practical pieces of installation and habitat-friendly practices and approaches – explore planting techniques, soil health, irrigation and groundcover choices and more.

Pollinator Gardening 101

Why should we garden with the natural world in mind? Get a strong introduction to pollinators, their needs, their connections to planetary health, and how we can provide in the garden through our own choices and actions.

 

Pollinator Gardening 2.0 Advanced Gardening 

Ready to level up your pollinator gardening game? This 3-hour masterclass is an extension of our popular Pollinator Gardening Bootcamp, designed for those who want to take their skills to the next level and make a lasting impact on local ecosystems.

Join Butterfly Pavilion’s expert team for an immersive deep dive into advanced pollinator gardening. Engage in expert-led discussions and hands-on activities that delve into plant-pollinator dynamics, habitat optimization, and cutting-edge gardening techniques. Collaborate with other passionate gardeners, receive personalized guidance, and refine your skills in planning, designing, and maintaining diverse, thriving pollinator-friendly landscapes.

This program is perfect for seasoned gardeners ready to create sustainable habitats that support our vital pollinators year after year!

Pollinator Gardening Bootcamp Package Pricing

Get empowered and equipped to transform outdoor spaces into pollinator habitat havens with Butterfly Pavilion's Pollinator Gardening Bootcamp workshop series! Workshops include educational lectures, interactive participation, hands-on outdoor activities, and personalized instruction. Join other curious and passionate pollinator supporters and gardening enthusiasts through the planning, design, implementation, and upkeep involved in gardening for pollinators.

*To obtain your certification, you must complete the 5 classes and pass the comprehensive final exam (open-book, research encouraged) with a 70% or better. *

Cost:

Member Package Pricing: $140 for all classes

Non-member Package Pricing: $160 for all classes

2025 class dates:

Sunday, February 23: Pollinator Gardening 101 - 9:30am - 12:30pm

Sunday, March 30: Plants for Pollinators - 10:00am-1:00pm

Sunday, April27: Pollinator Garden Design - 10:00am-1:00pm

Sunday, May 18: Pollinator Garden Preparation and Planting - 10:00am-1:00pm

Sunday, July 27: Pollinator Garden Maintenance and Care - 10:00am-1:00pm

Pollinator Gardening Mini-Bootcamp

If you've always wanted to see more butterflies in your garden, have bigger harvests from your kitchen garden, or just make a positive difference for the planet, pollinator habitat gardening could be for you! This 90-minute interactive workshop will introduce you to the principles and practices of pollinator habitat gardening, from site assessment to design to maintenance. Learn about bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while also learning how simple changes to your landscape can add food, shelter, and other resources for these important animals.

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