Calling all dino and fossil lovers: Make time to head to Rockford this weekend, March 2-3, for all things dinosaurs at the 21st annual PaleoFest 2019. The event provides plenty of hands-on activities, the chance to see real dinosaur fossils and plenty of learning opportunities. Not convinced? Here are four reasons why you’ll want to make the trip!
Have a roaring good time!
Activities galore
Grab your Paleo Passports and stop by different stations throughout the museum. Each station has dino activities and games that provide fun learning opportunities. Once passports are completed, you get a prize.
Family workshops
Families can work together during any of the family workshops offered. How did reptiles fly? Explore the answers during “The Dragons of the Sky Workshop,” then create your own wings to wear. Did you know there are more horned dinosaurs besides Triceratops? During “Horns and Frills…oh my!” little budding scientists will learn about other types of horned dinos as well as examine real triceratops horns, frills, and more. Leave with a newfound respect for horned dinosaurs as well as your own horned dinosaur mask.
Family lectures
Enamored with paleontology? Get inside knowledge by attending a family lecture with an actual paleontologist. One of the lectures features Thomas Holtz, a paleontologist and author to many children’s books. He’ll chat about dino feathers, fuzz and so much more.
Family paleo art
Combine your kids’ love of dinosaurs and art during the PaleoArt workshop. Kids will be able to meet Stephen Sommers, a professional artist, and the talent behind many of Burpee’s paleo art. He’ll talk about his art, and then everyone will be able to complete their own PaleoArt pencil or ink drawing!
If you go
- Burpee Museum of Natural History
- 737 N. Main St., Rockford
- 9 a.m. Saturday, March 2, and Sunday, March 3
- General Admission $8 kids, $12 adults. Family packages are available starting at $35 for a family of four (additional youth passes are $8.) Kids under 3 are free.
