For one weekend this summer, creepy crawlies will take center stage at Churchville Nature Center.
From honeybees and butterflies to racing cockroaches and curious crustaceans, the center's annual Arthropalooza invites visitors to get an up-close look at the fascinating world of arthropods through hands-on activities, interactive exhibits and outdoor exploration.
The family-friendly event returns Saturday, Aug. 1, and Sunday, Aug. 2, transforming the nature center's gardens, patio and Butterfly House into a hub of discovery for nature lovers of all ages.
Rather than shying away from insects and spiders, Arthropalooza encourages guests to embrace them. Activities include the honeybee meet and greet, buggy crafts, cockroach races, tours of the Butterfly House, Cricket Café, Pond Dip Netting, scavenger hunt and more. This event attracts hundreds of people annually and includes families, scouts and homeschool groups from throughout Bucks County and the Greater Philadelphia region.
Cost to attend Arthropalooza is $8 per person (children 3 and under are free). Current members of the Friends of Churchville Nature Center also attend for free, but memberships must be up to date prior to Aug. 1, organizers said, adding that they cannot be purchased or renewed at the event.
Arthropalooza is a pay-at-the-door event and registration is not required.
“Arthropalooza is an annual summer tradition for many families and groups,” said Megan Keller, summer camp coordinator for Churchville Nature Center. “We use discovery and hands-on science to provide memorable opportunities for folks to learn about arthropods.”
Arthropalooza will be held outdoors on the grounds of Churchville Nature Center on Saturday, Aug. 1 and Sunday, Aug. 2, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. For more information, visit churchvillenaturecenter.org
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