Submitted by Ashley Kortis, Dir of Advancement
Young naturalists will have an opportunity to get outside and learn about Texas pollinators at the Science Mill’s “Pollinator Palooza” this Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 101 South Lady Bird Lane, Johnson City.
Pollinator Palooza highlights the roles of butterflies, bees, and bats in pollinating plants, using hands-on activities for all ages. They include:
-making wildflower seed bombs to plant at home to attract pollinators
-enjoying a “bat’s eye view” of what it’s like to navigate with echolocation
-following the monarch’s migration in Flight of the Butterfly 3D (one day only)
-building a bug habitat out of reusable materials
For a small additional fee, visitors can join a Live Butterfly Release on the grounds at 11:30am.
There will be a sale of native pollinating plants from 10am-5pm, and Mike Mendez, Bee Keeper, will talk about beekeeping.
The museum’s regular exhibits are open from 10 am–5 pm, with special activities taking place from 10 am–2 pm. The Gift Shop and Lady Bird Café are open.
Advanced tickets can be purchased online at www.sciencemill.org:
0-2 years (Free)
Ages 3-17 ($9.50)
Adult 18-64 ($11.00)
Seniors 65+ ($9.00)
Walk-ins are welcome, although purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to ensure space and butterflies are available. Pollinator Palooza activities (except Butterfly Release) are free with regular museum admission.
Enhanced Package Pricing for Butterfly Release:
Pollinator Pals: Youth ticket + a butterfly to release ($12)
Pollinator Patrons: Adult ticket + a butterfly to release ($13.50)
Pollinator Patrons+: Senior ticket + a butterfly to release ($11.50)
The Science Mill is a 501(c)3 non-profit museum that opened in 2015 to offer innovative STEM programs and interactive exhibits to all students–regardless of economic status, location, gender or race.