Family Programs

For this month's Invertebrate Investigation we're going to examine where all the bugs go in winter! We'll explore the different cold weather strategies bug use to make it through the winter and how we can help them survive until spring.

Join us for a cozy winter family program where we’ll share the heartwarming tale of Cobweb Christmas by Shirley Climo, a story about kindness, wonder, and the magic of unexpected guests. After the story, families will create their own nature-inspired ornaments using wood slices, painted with trees and tiny spiders, and decorated with a touch of tinsel to hang them with. Perfect for all ages, this event combines storytelling and creativity in a festive atmosphere that celebrates nature’s beauty and winter surprises.

Instructor: Local artist Dani Forsyth

Pricing:

• $18 per project for member adults/$14 kids
• $20 per project for non-members/$16 kids
• Pricing includes materials for one (1) decorated ornament. Additional ornaments may be purchased at ticket cost

What’s included:

• Storytime
• Wood slice ornament and decorations/paint
• Tinsel to hang the ornament

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.

November

November 19, 2025:

Discover the secrets of how invertebrates survive the winter! Join us to uncover their cold-weather strategies, from hibernation to migration, through hands-on crafts and activities.

February 10, 2026: Ecosystems

Join us as we explore the interconnected networks of plants and animals that sustain life on our planet. We'll examine the diverse ecosystems found around the world, how invertebrates support our natural habitats, and how we can support them in turn.

March 11, 2026: Baby Bugs

Baby animals are the cutest, and baby bugs are no exception! Join us as we examine the unique life cycles of insects, arachnids, and more through classes, activities, and crafts. We'll also look at baby pics of some of our favorite Butterfly Pavilion residents!

April 15, 2026: Conservation in Action

Conservation is a big topic but even the smallest actions can help our natural world! We'll explore different conservation initiatives that Butterfly Pavilion is leading and strategies anyone can implement to help protect our planet.

September 17, 2026: Backyard Buddies

Butterfly Pavilion showcases amazing invertebrates from all over the planet, but there are also plenty of awesome animals to be found in our own backyards! We'll explore our state's incredible biodiversity and learn more about the invertebrates that call Colorado home through classes, activities, and crafts.

October 15, 2026: Masters of Disguise

Many invertebrates utilize camouflage to help them survive, making them the ultimate masters of disguise! We will explore how different colors, patterns, and behaviors help invertebrates survive and thrive through classes, activities, and crafts.

November 12, 2026: Adaptations are the ultimate secret to survival!

Join us as we dive into the diverse world of invertebrate adaptations and learn how these unique animals survive in ecosystems all over the planet.

Here at Butterfly Pavilion, we know that things can get pretty hectic with busy butterflies, bees and bodies buzzing around during the day. Join us for a low-sensory afternoon that meets the needs of families that need to experience the Pavilion in a different way. With natural lighting, quiet tones, and limited admission - this experience offers your little one an enjoyable, low-key experience just for them.

Each Sensory Friendly Afternoon offers guided interpretation in each exhibit and an interactive Storytime program.