July 22, 2024

PHILADELPHIA, July 22, 2024—The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University (the Academy) will be celebrating insects large and small, from the creepy crawly to the beautiful, this summer at Bug Fest. Taking place August 10 and 11 at the Academy, as well as on a few locations on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Bug Fest will bring guests up close and personal with scientists, artists, educators and of course, the insects themselves.

“Bugs are a part of our everyday life and play a major part in our biodiversity, but we don’t always stop to think about the many ways they impact us and our ecosystem,” said Jon Gelhaus, PhD, curator of Entomology at the Academy. “Bug Fest is a time that we put a spotlight on insects, so guests have a chance to learn about and celebrate the creatures that make up 80 percent of the earth’s species and explore the Academy’s world-class Entomology collection.”

Bug Fest returns for its 17th year, bringing with it popular features like the roach races, live bug displays, hands on education stations and make and take crafts, guided outdoor bug walks and the return of Zack Lemann the Cajun Bug Chef. Throughout the museum, guests will have chances to observe, ask questions and get face-to-face with the many-legged creatures of the insect world.

This year also includes a Saturday evening screening of “Microcosmos,” a captivating documentary and world-renown classic that takes a very close look at the hidden lives of invertebrates, with an introduction by the Academy’s Entomology collection manager, Jason Weintraub

In addition to the returning favorites, this year’s festival will feature new highlights including area food trucks, the Now and Then local artisans’ market and artist Jerrell Adams onsite drawing extraordinary bugs throughout the weekend.

“The Academy really comes alive for Bug Fest,” said Anwar Abdul-Qawi, Animal Programs Manager for the Academy. “It is a weekend-long party that has something for everyone, even those who may not think of themselves as insect lovers. By the end of Bug Fest, you will be!”

In addition to all events and displays throughout Bug Fest, artist Lauren Cat West’s large rainbow scarab beetle sculpture will be on display at the Academy’s Parkway entrance. Guests will have the chance to talk to the artist, who will be onsite with some of her smaller works.

Bug Fest takes place Saturday, August 10 and Sunday, August 11 during the Academy’s open hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All daytime events and activities are included in regular admission. "Microcosmos” screens at 7 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets are pay-what-you-wish. Visit ansp.org/bugfest for more details and the complete schedule.

In-studio and interview availability: Anwar Abdul-Qawi will be available the week of Aug. 5 for interviews, photographs and in-studio appearances with some of the Academy’s insect ambassadors. Please contact Kaitlyn Foti Kalosy at fotik38@drexel.edu to schedule.

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About the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is a leading natural history museum and scientific research organization dedicated to understanding the natural world and inspiring everyone to care for it. The Academy is a constant source of innovation, education and engagement with environmental justice. It is home to more than 19 million scientific specimens in its world-class collections. Learn more at ansp.org and follow the Academy on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn. 

Contact:

Kaitlyn Foti Kalosy
kfk38@drexel.edu