Family Programs

Join us for this month’s Invertebrate Investigation as we dive into the incredible world of insect biodiversity! Insects are some of the most diverse animals on the planet, and that diversity has led to some fascinating adaptations. We’ll explore bizarre beetles, wacky weevils, and more as we learn about what makes an insect an insect and how they’ve adapted to live in almost every ecosystem on Earth.

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Experience Butterfly Pavilion After-Hours at a discounted admission rate! Join us on the first Tuesday of every month to explore our exhibits after hours and enjoy self-guided activities! As a bonus, upon completing all activities, each family member earns a fun invertebrate sticker!

Registration is required. Ticket sales and event admission close at 6:30 p.m. on the day of the event. Don’t miss this affordable and educational after-hours experience!

Every month there is a new theme, check the list below and pre-register tickets for the nights you want to attend!

2025 Dates and Themes:

June 3rd – Pollinator Protectors

July 8th – Bug Birthdays

August 5th - The Patterns of Nature

September 2nd - Invertebrate Creations

October 7th – Not-So-Spooky Spiders!

November 4th – Monarch Mysteries

December 2nd - Bugs in Winter

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

Grab your flashlight and get ready for a special guided tour like no other. Whether you're a curious kid or an adventurous adult, this after-hours experience is perfect for you. Explore the exhibits in a whole new light and become a detective as you solve mysteries of invertebrates from around the world. Get ready to dive into their fascinating stories and learn about the challenges they face in the real world.

Celebrate the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren with a delightful pressed flower lantern workshop! Create beautiful lanterns that will light up your home and serve as a cherished memory of your time together. And, without pollinators like bees, flies, and wasps, we wouldn't have such beautiful flowers to create works of art with!

Supplies included:

- One 10oz glass jar per person

- Pressed flowers

- Supplies to assemble the craft

Instructor: local artist Dani Forsyth!

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.

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.