Celebrating Insect Fest 2026

Wisconsin Insect Fest was a buzzing success!

We welcomed 1,379 guests for an evening of interactive booths, expert presentations, guided walks, and a screening of The Extraordinary Caterpillar – plus we kept Blooming Butterflies open late for the occasion. The night wrapped up with a Moth BioBlitz, where 163 participants helped document 45 moth species across the Gardens. My personal highlight? Watching a magical giant silk moth glide through the Moonlight Meadow.

Kind Thailand and Ara’s Antojitos Authentic Mexican food carts kept everyone fed with delicious dishes, including some adventurous options featuring edible insects!

Huge thanks to our partners at the UW–Madison Department of Entomology for bringing this celebration to life. We’re lucky to have world-renowned entomologists in our community and such rich insect diversity right here at Olbrich.

Thank you to everyone who brought their knowledge, curiosity, and passion for biodiversity.