Bug Fest Returning to Area in August

Insects and the fascinating world of bugs will take center stage from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 24, when the fourth annual Bug Fest is held at Lippold Park and Red Oak Nature Center.

The free, family-friendly event will feature fun and educational activities with a swarm of bug-related games, demonstrations and crafts. In addition to Lippold Park and Red Oak, the event will utilize the one-half mile stretch of the Fox River Trail that connects the two facilities.

Visitors can begin their exploration at either Red Oak or Lippold; both sites will have free guide books available, along with T-shirts, books and snacks for sale.

Parking is available at either Lippold or Schneider Elementary School (304 Banbury Road, North Aurora), with free shuttle buses running regularly between Schneider and Red Oak (which offers handicap parking only).

Children and adults alike will learn about the benefits of bugs and the important roles they play such as pollinating plants and flowers, aerating the soil and serving as a major source in the food chain.

“Bugs hold a bit of intrigue for everybody, and they’re often misunderstood,” said Red Oak naturalist and facility supervisor Margaret Gazdacka. “They’re actually pretty amazing creatures that play a huge role in nature.”

Red Oak will feature free presentations (9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.) by local beekeeper Harry Patterson, who will discuss how bees make honey and explain their important role in nature. Several varieties of honey will be available for sale.

At Lippold, Terminix will have an extensive bug exhibit at its “Insect Zoo,” with a host of displays and insect collections, including cool bug artifacts.

For more information on Bug Fest, visit www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org or call Red Oak at 630-897-1808. Guidebooks can be downloaded from the website as well.

Provided by the Fox Valley Park District