BUGfest

A bee on a blue background with 'BUGfest' written

While there are approximately 6,400 described species of mammals on planet Earth, it is estimated that there are more than 1.3 million species of invertebrates!* This incredible fact was enough reason for NHMU to develop BUGfest, an annual celebration as big as its subjects are small. 

For one weekend a year, BUGfest brings together invertebrate experts, educators, and enthusiasts for a a celebration packed with fun programming, collections showcases, live insect interactions, informative lectures, and even a BUGbar. All with the goal of helping bug fans and the fearful gain a greater appreciation for the wonderfully diverse and fundamentally important world of insects and other invertebrates. 

Stay tuned for more details on BUGfest 2024, which will be posted here in the spring. 

* Estimates are not fixed and actual numbers of both invertebrate and mammal species could be much higher due to the vast diversity life on our planet.