BugFest

blue and purple gradient with the BUGfest logo and small insect

About BugFest

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. 

BugFest and all our major festivals are included with admission and free for Museum Members.

2026 Festival Highlights

  • Expert Speakers: Learn about the big role tiny insects play across ecosystems
  • Amazing Specimen Displays: Get an up-close view of Utah’s incredible bugs and the plants they pollinate
  • Workshops: Combine art and science with hands-on, expert-led workshops
  • Family Fun: Face painting, crafts, and other bug-themed fun
  • Famous Bug Bar: Experience unique and yummy treats
  • Citizen Science Opportunities: Join the official BugFest bioblitz documenting invertebrates outside the Museum

BugFest is included with Museum admission, which is always free for Museum Members.

  • A kid reacts to eating an insect at BUGfest

    A child reacts to sampling some flavors at the famous BUGbar at BUGfest. Photo by Mark Johnston

  • Museum staff speak to an audience

    The Museum's director, Jason Cryan, and BUGbar chef, Megan Bartley, speak to an audience at the BUGbar during BUGfest. Photo by Mark Johnston

  • Guests admire insect specimens on display at BUGfest

    Guests admire insect specimens on display at BUGfest Photo by Mark Johnston

  • A child watches as a millipede crawls across her hands.
  • A guest leans in close to look at live bees.

    A guest admires live bees on display during BUGfest. Photo by Mark Johnston

  • Kids look at a scorpion inside a glass case.

    Young guests get a closer look at a scorpion illuminated by a black light during BUGfest. Photo by Mark Johnston

  • hands holding a Tarantula during an interaction at NHMU

    Tarantula Interaction at NHMU Photo by Mark Johnston

  • Jason Cryan speaks to an audience.

    The Museums director, Jason Cryan, speaks to an audience during an expert lecture at BUGfest. Photo by Mark Johnston

  • A family looks at a small beetle.
  • A kid holds a large millipede.

    A guest holds a millipede during BUGfest. Photo by Mark Johnston

  • A couple enjoys items from the Bug Bar.
  • Two people look outside for bugs.

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