Mississippi State University to Host Bugfest

 

This year’s event will be modified with limited attendance to abide by health and safety guidelines related to COVID-19. People who wish to attend the fest in person must call the arboretum at 601-799-2311 to register.

 

Bugfest is open to school and homeschool groups 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 24. The event is open to the public 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 25. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under.

 

The event will offer several of its traditional hands-on activities, including insect collection and identification and arts and crafts. Attendees can also hear presentations by MSU Extension Service entomologist John Guyton, Pearl River County Extension agent Eddie Smith and Hancock County Extension agent Christian Stephenson.

 

Some presentations will be offered virtually and broadcast via Zoom. Presentations delivered virtually will be recorded and available for later viewing. To get the link to view the presentations, visit the arboretum’s website at http://crosbyarboretum.msstate.edu/. Friday’s six presentations will repeat on Saturday.

 

On-site attendees will rotate through the event stations in small groups, beginning with a virtual presentation. They will move on to the Pinecote Pavilion where they can hear more about insects and participate in crafts and insect collection. 

 

Participants also can explore the arboretum’s pollinator garden and other exhibits. Various resources and information will be available about insect-related events and learning opportunities through MSU, including summer insect camps, the Mississippi Entomological Museum and the MSU Arthropod Zoo. 

 

The Crosby Arboretum, operated by the MSU Extension Service, is located at 370 Ridge Road in Picayune. Take Exit 4 off Interstate 59. Business office hours are 9 a.m. to 5p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. The arboretum is closed Monday and Tuesday.