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County Museums to Host Annual Arthropolooza: The Ultimate Bugfest

If creepy crawlies don’t give you the creeps, then maybe Arthropolooza: The Ultimate Bugfest will. Join us on Saturday, March 29 or Sunday, March 30 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the San Bernardino County Museum and Saturday, April 5 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Victor Valley Museum to celebrate all things creepy, crawly, sticky, prickly, wiggly, yucky and kind of cute. This family-friendly event promises an interactive, educational, and fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages, with special activities, live demonstrations, and expert-led conversations that explore the beauty and significance of the insect world.

This year’s events will guarantee a fascinating look into the world of insects through outdoor exploration and hands-on art activities as well as face painting, food and local artisans. Stop by the Flutterby Ranch butterfly zone from 1 to 4 p.m. and enjoy an interactive and immersive experience designed to captivate, educate and provide an inside look into the enchanting world of butterflies.

“We are thrilled to bring Arthropolooza: The Ultimate Bugfest back to our museums and offer a deeper look into the fascinating world of insects,” said Curator of Integrated Biology Dr. Mackenzie Kirchner-Smith. “Insects are often overlooked, but they are vital to our ecosystem. Through this event, we hope to inspire visitors to develop a greater appreciation for these tiny creatures and the important roles they play.”

Highlights of Arthropolooza: The Ultimate Bugfest include:

• Live insect exhibits: Visitors can get up close to a variety of live insects, including butterflies, beetles and spiders, and learn from entomologists about their unique behaviors and characteristics.
• Insect-themed art show: Local artists will showcase their insect-inspired creations, from sculptures to paintings, celebrating the beauty and diversity of the insect world.
• Expert demonstrations: Renowned entomologists and conservationists will share insights on topics like insect conservation, the ecological impact of pollinators, and how to support local insect populations.

San Bernardino County Museum is located at 2024 Orange Tree Lane, at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Victor Valley Museum is located at 11873 Apple Valley Road in Apple Valley. The museum is open on Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission is $10 (adult), $8 (military or senior), $7 (student), and $5 (children ages 6 to 12). Children five and under and Museum Foundation members are admitted free. Parking is free. The museums are accessible to people with disabilities. For more information, visit museum.sbcounty.gov or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

The San Bernardino County Museum’s exhibits of regional, cultural and natural history and the Museum’s other exciting events and programs reflect the effort by the Board of Supervisors to achieve the Countywide Vision by celebrating arts, culture and education in the county, creating quality of life for residents and visitors.

Young museum visitor proudly shows off centipede tattoo, with a real centipede joining the fun.