Hokie BugFest

Hokie BugFest celebrates the fun and exciting science of entomology, and the Virginia Tech tradition of learning and discovery, through outreach and engagement. This event highlights an ongoing youth education program hosted by the Virginia Tech Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Virginia Cooperative Extension's 4-H program, and the department's student-run professional organization, the W. B. Alwood Entomological Society. Since its inception in 1966, Alwood Society members have engaged over 30,000 children by hosting department tours, visiting schools, and supporting special events like the Hokie BugFest. The event is just one day in this ongoing, year-round effort. 

Hokie BugFest 2026

Our in-person event will take place on October 10th, 2026 at Squires Student Center in Blacksburg, VA from 10am-3pm. We will have an early opening at 9-10am for those with special needs (S.A.F.E. hour). Come to enjoy live bugs, educational exhibits, and hands-on activities!

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Whitney Weaver Wright in the office of Virginia Tech Pesticide Programs at 540-231-6543* during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

*TDD number is (800) 828-1120

Event highlights include:

• A special focus on invasive species, featuring exhibits from the Virginia Tech Invasive Species Collaborative (ISC) and partner organizations. Visitors can learn about invasive species such as the spotted lanternfly, emerald ash borer, red imported fire ant, spongy moth, and hemlock woolly adelgid, as well as ongoing efforts to monitor and manage these threats across Virginia.

• Live arthropods and animal ambassadors, including tarantulas, millipedes, termites, mosquitoes, caterpillars, cockroaches, and other fascinating invertebrates. Guests can also meet wildlife ambassadors from Mill Mountain Zoo and the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke.

• Hands-on science experiences that allow visitors to identify insects under microscopes, investigate ticks and mosquito-borne diseases, explore aquatic ecosystems, discover pollination science, and learn how insects affect agriculture, forests, and human health.

• Virtual reality and interactive technology, including immersive "Bugverse" experiences and opportunities to explore 3D insect models from the Virginia Tech Entomology Collection. 

• Remarkable insect collections, including more than 20 cabinets of pinned insects from around the world presented by the Virginia Museum of Natural History. Visitors can also view the annual 4-H Insect Collection Contest, which showcases award-winning collections assembled by youth from across Virginia.

• Family-friendly activities throughout the festival, including story times, music performances, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, bug-themed games, and opportunities for youth to earn a Junior Entomologist Certificate.

• Rare specimens and discoveries, including fossil insects, minerals, newly described millipede species, and exhibits highlighting ongoing research on insect diversity and conservation.

• Inclusive programming, including a sensory-friendly hour from 9 to 10 a.m. for anyone with special needs, a SAFE Break Zone, and a Bug Library featuring books, crafts, and a sensory-calming corner. 

Interested in Volunteering at Hokie BugFest?

Fill out our volunteer form by Monday, September 14th.