The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University (the Academy) will once again be celebrating all things insect this summer with the return of Bug Fest Aug. 8 & 9. The Academy will come alive inside and out to bring guests up close and personal with scientists, artists, educators and of course, the insects themselves.

"We often hear adjectives like 'creepy' and 'crawly' applied to insects, but Bug Fest is about recognizing them as essential, beautiful, versatile species that shape our global environment in positive and meaningful ways. Whether you want to interact with a hissing cockroach from Madagascar or learn about the species in your own backyard, Bug Fest is the place to be," said Mariah Romaninsky, Executive Director of Education and Visitor Experience for the Academy.

Bug Fest returns for its 19th year, bringing with it popular features like guided bug walks in Logan Square, roach races and education stations. The festival is a chance for the public to get access to the Academy's world-class entomology collection and draw on the knowledge and expertise of Academy entomologists to learn how to identify and pin bugs. Guests can also contribute to a paint-by-number mural by artist Manuela Guillén.

The Bug Fest excitement cannot be contained inside the building. Outside of the Academy, guests and passersby will be able to enjoy an outdoor marketplace featuring local artists and artisans inspired by the natural world and learn about the benefits of planting native species through the new native garden on the Parkway, part of the ongoing Botany of Nations exhibition.

"The Academy is a special place that has been working for more than two centuries to connect people to nature and to the animals, ecologies and especially insects that impact our everyday lives," said Liam O'Donnell, Public Programs Educator for the Academy. "Bug Fest makes sure that everyone from schoolchildren to longtime naturalists has a chance to experience the world through the eyes of our insect friends."

Bug Fest takes place Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9 during the Academy’s open hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All daytime events and activities are included in the price of regular admission. Visit the Bug Fest event page on ansp.org for more details and the complete schedule.