Please join Burpee Museum as we celebrate our 27th annual PaleoFest event on March 6 – March 8, 2026!
March 6 – March 8, 2026!
PaleoFest is a multi-day celebration of paleontology at the Burpee Museum of Natural History in Rockford, Illinois. The event features educational programs, workshops, and lectures from paleontologists. For one weekend, Burpee becomes the hot spot for all things paleontology from debates to activities to hanging out with other like minded paleo friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
New to the PaleoFest adventures? You won’t regret coming to visit during this very special time of year. But first, get some answers to frequently asked PaleoFest questions.
What Happens at PaleoFest?
Talks: Paleontologists from around the world share their research and studies
Workshops: Kids and adults can participate in workshops on topics like trilobites and ceratopsians
Art demonstrations: Visitors can learn about paleontology through art demonstrations
Pop-Up Exhibits & Games: Guests can view exhibit stations that focus on different aspects of paleontology open only during the PaleoFestivities.
Exhibit halls: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibit halls
Like Minded Connections: People from near and far gather in a like minded, accepting community to enjoy common interest in paleo.
Who is Presenting at PaleoFest?
Paleontologists: Researchers and students from around the world share their research. Get details here.
Education staff: The museum’s education staff create activities, games, and pop up exhibits for kids and adults
What are the goals of PaleoFest?
To share research and paleo news.
To inspire curiosity and learning about the natural world.
To make science fun and tangable for kids and adults.
Whats Special or New in 2025?
Lecture Peek
Ready for a taste of something more advanced? This year Burpee is offering a one day, one speaker lecture peek. You can catch a peek of our professional PaleoArtists, Researchers, or other speakers in the Riverview Room!
This is not included in the general admission ticket. Learn more here.
New: Cretaceous Trail Game
Calling our board game fans. Burpee has created a new board game and we want to see if you can survive the Cretaceous Trail! Don’t miss this gaming station in the general museum.
Is this for scientists only?
Not Just for Professional Scientists
Students, interested community members, and aspiring scientists are encouraged to join the experts as they share stories, research, and experiences. It is an excellent opportunity to make connections and become inspired!
Not ready for the lectures? Families can still enjoy hands-on workshops, lectures for children, and activities for families throughout our museum…paleo science is presented in a fun, big way.
What Can Families Do?
So Much! With general admission you can see all the pop-up exhibits and participate in the paleo games. Check out the meet and greet to get an autograph, picture, or ask questions of one of our paleontologists. Add a workshop and get hands on activities in a small setting with something special to take home.
Family Fun
Bring your best dino roar and paleo costume, and jump into so many fun ways to experience the museum. Learn about prehistoric animals and explore the halls of Burpee!
Note: An adult must accompany children ages 4-12.
When is PaleoFest 2026?
Members Honary Night: March 6 2026
5:00 pm – Main Museum
Doors Open for Reception: hors d’oeuvres & cash drinks
6:00 pm – Check-in for Baby Dinos Class
6:15pm: Baby Dino Class Begins
6:16pm Scott Williams: Paleo & The Celebrity Spotlight Talk Title TBA
7:30 pm – Museum Closes
PaleoFest Saturday, March 7 2026
8:30 am – Main Museum Opens for Will Call of Research attendees only
9:15 am – Opening Remarks in Riverview Lecture Hall
9:30am – Lectures Begin
10:00am – Main Museum opens for all guests
10:30am – Workshops Begin
5:00pm – Museum Closes
5:30pm– Doors open for PaleoFest Dinner & Reception at Rivierview Inn & Suites
7:30pm– Keynote Talk: Paul Sereno
PaleoFest Sunday, March 8 2026
9:15 am – Main Museum Opens for Will Call of Research attendees only
9:45 am – Opening Remarks in Riverview Lecture Hall
10:00 am – Lectures Begin
10:00am – Main Museum opens for all guests
10:30am – Workshops Begin
5:00pm – Museum Closes
Make the Most of Your Visit!
About Burpee Museum’s PaleoFest
Since 1999, PaleoFest has become an internationally recognized and respected program that celebrates the science of Paleontology. PaleoFest is an exemplary program to excite, educate, and inspire all people in science. This 3-day event includes many educational programs and activities for all levels of interest in paleontology. Each year, PaleoFest attracts nearly 2,000 visitors and some of the biggest names in the field.