Summer Event Series: Insect Day
Saturday, July 11, 2026
10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Explore the hidden world of insects on Insect Day! Did you know that more than half of known species are insects? We think that’s something to celebrate! Embrace buggy diversity with all six arms as we investigate these amazing creatures up close and explore their effects on the world around us.

Programs Schedule:

11:00 am — Science Discovery: Insect Story Time
11:45 am — One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure (Planetarium full-dome movie)*
12:30 pm — Science Discovery: Caterpillar Lab on Sundial Plaza
1:15 pm — Astronomy Live! Our Night Sky (Educator-led program in the planetarium)*
2:00 pm — Astronomy Live! Tour of the Solar System (Educator-led program in the planetarium)*
2:45 pm — Science Discovery: Insect Investigation Walk
3:30 pm — Passport to the Universe (Planetarium full-dome movie)*
4:15 pm — Afternoon Astronomy

Ongoing Activities – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm:

Bug Bingo
Insect Inspection
Camouflage
10:00 am–4:00 pm

We are excited to host The Caterpillar Lab on Insect Day again this year with a free-exploration program and experience the incredible world of New England caterpillars! This drop-in exhibit will feature a variety of local caterpillar species, and there will be plenty for everyone to explore! Educators from The Caterpillar Lab will teach you all about metamorphosis and tell incredible but true stories about the creatures’ strange and surprising adaptations. Some caterpillars may be camouflaged to look like twigs or snakes. Some may have stinging spines or brightly colored baubles. Check out some little-known native critters munching on their food plants right in front of you. Stay for a few minutes or for an hour; you’re sure to see something new! Learn more about The Caterpillar Lab at www.thecaterpillarlab.org.

Want to beat the crowds? Caterpillar Lab will also join us on Friday, July 10!

Learn more about Insect Day here: Insect Day

*Train rides, planetarium shows, and otter encounters require a separate ticket and limited spaces are available; not included with admission.