STORRS, Conn. — UConn Extension is excited to celebrate Bug Week 2026 from July 12–18 with hands-on educational programs and family-friendly events across Connecticut that highlight the fascinating world of insects and their relatives.
Insects account for nearly 90% of animal life on Earth and play critical roles in pollination, decomposition, natural pest control, and healthy ecosystems. Through Bug Week, UConn Extension aims to help families discover the incredible diversity of insects found throughout Connecticut while learning why these tiny creatures are essential to our environment and daily lives.
“Bug Week is an opportunity for people of all ages to get inspired, explore nature, and appreciate the insects that support our food systems, gardens, forests, and ecosystems,” said organizers with UConn Extension. “Whether you enjoy gardening, science, farming, photography, or simply being outdoors, there is something for everyone during Bug Week.”
Programs and activities will take place throughout the week and are open to all ages. Highlights include:
Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 3:00–5:30 pm
Spring Valley Student Farm
Visit Spring Valley Student Farm for the annual “Insect Wonders at the Farm” event. Families can participate in Bug Jeopardy, enjoy guided bug tours, learn about beekeeping, and explore the vegetables grown for the UConn Storrs campus. This event is free and open to all ages.
Thursday, July 16, 2026 | 6:00 – 9:00 pm
Main Street, Willimantic, CT
Learn all about Connecticut's bees with theConnecticut State Museum of Natural History and The Last Green Valley! See specimens of local bees, learn about where and how they live, and how to tell them apart from wasps. Visitors of all ages can help us create bee houses for the Windham Garden Clubs green spaces across Willimantic! Festival is free and more info about parking and vendors can be found at willimanticstreetfest.com.
Friday, July 17, 2026 | 1:00–4:00 pm
Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL)
61 North Eagleville Rd. Storrs, CT 06269
While at the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory at UConn, you will visit the experts to learn about ticks and other parasites and have some hands-on time with a dissection microscope! Samples in closed containers are welcome.This event is FREE and open to the public.
Pro Tip: It's within walking distance to the UConn Dairy Bar so you might want to plan on stopping by for a sweet treat!
Friday, July 17, 2026 | 3:30–4:30pm
Mansfield Public Library, Buchanan Auditorium
54 Warrenville Rd, Mansfield Center, CT 06250
Get up close with some of nature’s most unusual — and often misunderstood — creatures with Riverside Reptiles! Jeepers Creepers features a fun mix of reptiles, amphibians, insects, arachnids, and other invertebrates. This FREE program is best for kids ages 4-12, but all families are welcome!
Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 10:30 am–11:30 am
Mansfield Public Library, Program Room
54 Warrenville Rd, Mansfield Center, CT 06250
Learn about bugs through silly stories and songs! After, stay to play with bug-themed toddler toys and/or do a special buggy craft! This free event is best for ages 1-6, but all families welcome.
Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 10:00 am–1:00 pm
UConn Extension Middlesex County Center
1066 Saybrook Rd, Haddam, CT
Participants are invited to explore bug walks and insect hunts in the Middlesex County Extension gardens. The event will also feature craft activities, face painting, insect identification activities, and family-friendly educational opportunities. This event is free and open to all ages.
Additional events may be added to Bug Week 2026 including educational workshops, insect-themed activities, library events, and community celebrations.
For an up-to-date schedule of events and program updates, visit bugs.uconn.edu
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