UConn Extension celebrates Bug Week 2026
Looking for something fun to do while out and about this summer? How about Bug Week in Connecticut?
UConn Extension is excited to celebrate Bug Week 2026, July 12 – 18, with hands-on educational programs and family-friendly events across Connecticut that highlight the fascinating world of insects and their relatives.
Insects account for nearly 90% of animal life on Earth and play critical roles in pollination, decomposition, natural pest control and healthy ecosystems. Through Bug Week, UConn Extension aims to help families discover the incredible diversity of insects found throughout Connecticut while learning why these tiny creatures are essential to our environment and daily lives.
“Bug Week is an opportunity for people of all ages to get inspired, explore nature and appreciate the insects that support our food systems, gardens, forests and ecosystems,” said organizers with UConn Extension. “Whether you enjoy gardening, science, farming, photography or simply being outdoors, there is something for everyone during Bug Week.”
Programs and activities will take place throughout the week and are open to all ages. Highlights include:
- Insect Wonders at the Farm – July 14 from 3 – 5:30 p.m. at Spring Valley Student Farm
Visit Spring Valley Student Farm for the annual “Insect Wonders at the Farm” event. Families can participate in “Bug Jeopardy!”, enjoy guided bug tours, learn about beekeeping and explore the vegetables grown for the UConn Storrs campus. This event is free and open to all ages.
- Bug Week at Third Thursday with CSMNH & TLGV – July 16 from 6 – 9 p.m., Main Street, Willimantic
Learn all about Connecticut’s bees with the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History and the Last Green Valley! See specimens of local bees, learn about where and how they live and how to tell them apart from wasps.
- Learn About Ticks & Other Parasites with CVMDL – July 17 from 1 – 4 p.m. at the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL), 61 North Eagleville Rd. Storrs
This event is free and open to the public. While at the CVMDL at UConn, visit the experts to learn about ticks and other parasites and have some hands-on time with a dissection microscope. Samples in closed containers are welcome. (Pro tip: It’s within walking distance of the UConn Dairy Bar so you might want to plan on stopping by for a sweet treat.)
- Bug Walks at Middlesex County Extension – July 18 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., UConn Extension Middlesex County Center
Participants are invited to explore bug walks and insect hunts in the Extension gardens. The event will also feature craft activities, face painting, insect identification activities and family-friendly educational opportunities. This event is free and open to all ages.
Additional events may be added to Bug Week 2026 including educational workshops, insect-themed activities, library events and community celebrations.
For an up-to-date schedule of events and program updates, visit bugs.uconn.edu.
