Posted: 6/20/2025 | Print Friendly Version
The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House is hosting educational opportunities for children all summer long, offering hands-on learning to keep young minds active and engaged during summer break and fostering an appreciation for insects and conservation.

Throughout the summer the Butterfly House will be offering story times, reading-focused events, kid-friendly citizen science projects and more throughout June, July and August.

Pollinator Weekend

June 21 & 22 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

On the first official weekend of summer, the Butterfly House invites visitors to learn and support pollinators in St. Louis. Pollinator Weekend will feature activities for young kids, a plant sale and a paint and plant fundraiser to support pollinator education in our region.


Plant Outpost in the Native Butterfly Garden

Tuesday–Friday, Now–July 31 | 11 a.m.

Families are invited to explore the native butterfly garden and learn about plants pollinators love. A horticulturist with the Butterfly House will be on site Tuesday through Friday in June and July, to answer questions and help curious kids explore new plants. Activities at the Plant Outpost station are included in admission to the Butterfly House.


Fireflies and Friends Festival

June 27 | 6:30–9:30 p.m.

During this special evening celebrating the bugs of summer, children and adults can become bug scientists and take part in kid-friendly citizen science projects. Visitors will learn about dragonflies and other bugs and venture into Faust Park with our entomology team to search for fireflies while discovering ways to protect the habitats of these insects. There will also be live music and adult beverages for those 21+. Advanced registration for this event is required. Space is limited.


Animal Encounters

Daily, Now–August 10 | 2 p.m.

Throughout the summer, guests can get to know the bugs that call the Butterfly House home a little more personally. Daily animal encounters with our entomology team invite children to interact with walking sticks, beetles, and other bugs. Learn more about the unique behaviors and roles of these bugs and how the entomology team cares for them. Animal encounters are included in admission to the Butterfly House.


Free Admission Days for St. Louis City and County residents

July 1 and August 5 | 9–11 a.m.

St. Louis City and County residents can enjoy free admission to the Butterfly House on July 1 and August 5 until 11 a.m. Proof of residency will be requested at the door. Enjoy free access to the Exhibit Hall, Tropical Conservatory, Nature T.R.E.K. sensory trail and more.


Moth Week

July 21–27

The Butterfly House will be celebrating Moth Week in July, teaching visitors about the life cycles and habitats of moths in Missouri. Community partners will join the Butterfly House on July 26 and 27 to showcase moth conservation efforts in our area. Programming is included in Butterfly House admission.


Bookworm Brunch: Featuring Frog and Toad

August 9 | 9–10:30 a.m.

Beloved characters jump off the page at this special story time featuring the iconic Frog and Toad duo. Guests can enjoy brunch, story time, themed crafts and photos with the characters. Advanced registration is required for this event. Space is limited.


Buggin’ it Books

Daily August 1–31 | 10:30 a.m.

Encourage a love of reading and develop active listening skills with this daily interactive story time that explores the importance of insects through children’s literature. Story times are included in admission to the Butterfly House.