National Fossil Day Events
Many exciting events are being held at museums, federal and state agencies, fossil sites, science and education organizations, and avocational groups across the country. Some events may require reservations or admission fees. Please contact the event host for more specific information about the event.
Last update: October 9th, 2018
Alabama
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Alabama Museum of Natural History
Join us in a celebration of all things fossil during this National Parks Service established day of fossil appreciation and stewardship. 5:00-7:00 pm. Free and fun for all ages.
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
5:00 PM- 7:00 PM
Alabama Museum of Natural History
6th Ave, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487
https://almnh.ua.edu/
Arizona
2. Grand Canyon National Park
National Fossil Day
National Park Service
The Grand Canyon National Park will host multiple events on National Fossil Day:
9-10 am Fossil Walk. Meet at Bright Angel Trailhead. Learn about Grand Canyon's ancient life through its fossil history. This easy walk along the Rim Trail explores the marine fossils of an ancient Permian Sea.(60 mins)
11 am – 2 pm Fun with Fossils! Discover why fossils are important! Fun fossil games and activities for kids of all ages! Come and Go outside at Yavapai Geology Museum
1-2 pm Ask a Scientist! How do fossils form? What is a Trace Fossil? Meet some of the Grand Canyon's Scientists and ask your question! Meet outside at Yavapai Geology Museum
7:30-8:30 pm Paleontology at Grand Canyon Evening Program: Special National Fossil Day Presentation. What is Paleontology? What fossils are found at Grand Canyon? Why are they important? What scientific research is currently happening in the park? Meet at the Shrine of the Ages
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
Contact: Ronnie Colvin
Interpretive Park Ranger, Grand Canyon National Park
817-798-7941
archosaurlady@gmail.com
https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm
3. Museum of Northern Arizona
Digging Dinosaurs
Museum of Northern Arizona
Celebrate National Fossil Day at MNA! Join Paleontologist Christa Sadler to touch fossils, handle tools and hear how paleontologists find, excavate, remove and prepare dinosaur bones.
October 13th, 2018
2:00 PM to Close
3101 N. Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
JGlennon@musnaz.org
musnaz.org
4. Petrified Forest National Park
National Fossil Day at PEFO
Petrified Forest National Park
Come out to Petrified Forest National Park to celebrate National Fossil Day in our unique Triassic style! Activities include watching fossil preparation, touring museum collections, creating your own plaster fossil cast, and chatting about all things fossils with our staff paleontologists.
Fossil preparation demonstration lab
9 am - 3pm
Create-a-fossil plaster casting
9 am - 3 pm
Demo Lab at Painted Desert Visitor Center
Lab and collections tours
11 am & 2 pm
Painted Desert Visitor Center
Meet a paleontologist
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Rainbow Forest Museum
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Adam Marsh, lead paleontologist. e-mail us
https://www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm
California
5. Joshua Tree National Park
National Fossil Day
National Park Service
Activity will be a chat about Pleistocene fossils and environment with fossil props and a mural, and the opportunity to become a Junior Paleontologist with an activity book and badge
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
Event will be held at the Visitor Center at Joshua Tree National Park
Marker Marshall: w: (760) 367-5534, c: (760) 808-5399, marker_marshall@nps.gov
https://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm
6. San Diego Natural History Museum
Fossil Day Celebration
San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
Join The Nat’s paleontologists for a celebration of all things prehistoric. National Fossil Day is Wednesday, October 17, but we’re celebrating one week early with some show-and-tell and mini-tours. Touch fossils from our ancient past and meet the creatures that thrived 100 million years ago, (including a mosasaur!). At 11:30, 12:30, or 1:30, jump on a 30-minute, behind-the-scenes tour of our fossil collections and the Paleontology Lab, where museum scientists and volunteers prepare fossils for study.
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
11 AM – 2 PM
The Atrium of The Nat
Emma Bloom, public programs manager: 619-255-0177; ebloom@sdnhm.org
https://www.sdnhm.org/calendar/by-date?date=2018-10-10
7. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Dino Fest
Dinosaurs once dominated the Earth, and this weekend they are taking over Los Angeles for the 3rd annual Dino Fest at NHMLA!
Join us for a two-day festival celebrating dinosaurs, their prehistoric past, and the science that brings their world back to life. Meet world-renowned paleontologists from the Museum's Dinosaur Institute and beyond as they discuss historic and ongoing fossil discoveries from around the world. Visit exhibitors, catch a glimpse of rare specimens from the Museum’s collections, dig into hands-on activities, explore our world renowned Dino Hall with the world’s only Tyrannosaurus rex growth series, and so much more!
This year you can cool off with dinosaurs who lived in polar environments, like Cryolophosaurus. And help us celebrate our Dinosaur Puppets' 10th birthday! It’s bound to be a bash!
September 29th and 30th, 2018
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007
Marisol Jara, Program Manager mjara@nhm.org
www.nhm.org/dinofest
8. Los Angeles Comic Con
The Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology, The Western Science Center, and Cosplay for Science
Dinosaurs invade Los Angeles Comic Con. Join our paleontologists as they show you amazing fossils from their museums and talk about how these fossils helped to inspire some of our favorite monsters in movies, games, and comics.
Saturday, October 27th, 2018
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
www.alfmuseum.org, www.westernsciencecenter.org, www.cosplayforscience.org
9. Western Science Center
The Science of Fossils
Western Science Center
Celebrate both National Fossil Day and National Bison Day with an up close look at the bison that roamed our valley during the Ice Ages. Explore fossils and discover how paleontologists learn about the past with the Western Science Center and our friends from the Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology. Take a closer look at what teeth can tell us, learn about new discoveries, and talk to a paleontologist!
Saturday, November 3rd, 2018
10:30 AM - 1: 00 PM
Western Science Center 2345 Searl Parkway, Hemet, CA 92543, US
WesternScienceCenter.org
10. Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology
National Fossil Day
Join the museum as we celebrate the paleontological history of the United States for National Fossil Day!
More details coming soon!
October 20th, 2018
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
1175 West Baseline Road, Claremont, CA 91711-2199
Telephone: (909) 624-2798
https://www.alfmuseum.org/
Colorado
11. Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center
Fossil Excavation Demonstration
Paleontologist Andrew Smith will give a demonstration for all ages on how paleontologists conduct field work to safely excavate and prepare fossils. This is a free event!
Saturday, October 20th, 2018
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Royal Gorge Regional Museum & History Center
612 Royal Gorge Blvd.
Cañon City, CO 81212
719-269-9036
Rgmhc.org
12. Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience
Steve Jorgensen on Ammonites of the Pierre Shale
Steve will talk about the injuries and predation on Menuites Oralensis found in the Pierre Shale in Canon City, and other localities. He will discuss many of the other ammonites in the same bio stratigraphic zones in the Pierre Shale. $8 pre-register, $10 at the door. Register to pam@dinoxp.com by 10/15
Friday, October 19th, 2018
2:00 PM
Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience
44895 W Highway 50
Canon City, CO 81212
719-275-2726, pam@dinoxp.com
dinoxp.com
13. National Conservation Areas National Fossil Day hikes
Colorado Canyons Association
Hikes to fossil sites in the the three Colorado National Conservation Areas
Wednesday, October 10th, 2018
Starting time- 5:30 PM
Three separate trailheads - see website or contact rob@canyonsassociation.org for more details
coloradocanyonsassociation.org
14. Colorado University Museum of Natural History
Trilobites!
Colorado University Museum of Natural History
We'll be outside the north entrance to the museum with our chocolate fondue pot so you can design your own trilobite cookie. Explore real trilobite fossils and other trilobite activities. Join us for a bite of fun in the middle of your day and after school!
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
CU Museum, Henderson Building on the CU-Boulder Campus, 1030 Broadway, Boulder, CO
museumed@colorado.edu, 303-492-1666
https://www.colorado.edu/cumuseum/
15. Garden of the Gods
Fossil Day Celebration
City of Colorado Springs and Western Interior Paleontological Society (WIPS)
Free family fun day with partners hosting educational tables, fossil identification, lots of hands on demos, fossils and natural history giveaways, free public lectures.
Saturday, October 13th, 2018
10:00 AM- 3:00 PM
Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Bret Tennis, Parks Operations Administrator, 719-219-0108, btennis@springsgov.com
www.gardenofgods.com
16. Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
National Fossil Day at Florissant Fossil Beds
Friends of the Florissant Fossil Beds
A day of fossil discovery including, story time, fossil crafts, and a scavenger hunt. Jr. Paleontologist books available to earn a badge
October 14th, 2018
10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Florissant, CO
karleen_mays@partner.nps.gov
https://www.nps.gov/flfo/index.htm
17. Dinosaur Ridge Visitor Center
Girl Scout/National Fossil Day
Friends of Dinosaur Ridge
Come celebrate National Fossil Day with Dinosaur Ridge! Girl Scouts can register to earn requirements for badges of all levels.
October 13, 2018
9am to 3pm:
Dinosaur Ridge Visitor Center: 16831 W Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465
Erin LaCount: education@Dinoridge.org
www.dinoridge.org
Connecticut
18. EverWonder Children’s Museum
EverWonder about Fossils? Come by on National Fossil Day to create your own fossil and explore other fossil activities! Available while supplies last!
Thursday at 9 AM – 4 PM
EverWonder Children's Museum
31 Pecks Ln, Newtown, Connecticut 06470
www.everwondermuseum.org
District of Columbia
19. National Mall in Washington D.C.
The National Mall National Fossil Day Event
National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution, American Geosciences Institute, Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, Bureau of Land Management, United States Forest Service, George Washington University, University of Maryland, Virginia Tech, M-NCPPC Dinosaur Park, and Virtual Worlds of Learning.
Come enjoy a National Fossil Day celebration experience at the National Mall where nine National Fossil Day Partners will be hosting activities and exhibits.
Partner activities include:
National Park Service- Be sworn in as a Junior Paleontologist and receive your official junior paleontologist badge by completing our Junior Paleontologist workbook. Learn about fossils at our national parks with fossil demonstrations and additional handouts.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History- Come sift through Miocene marine sediments to discover your very own shark tooth on the National Mall and then explore our exhibits inside the National Museum of Natural History where volunteers and docents will have more paleontological interactions in our The Last American Dinosaurs exhibit.
American Geosciences Institute- Come visit the interactive photo-booth where you can your picture taken at famous fossil sites, and with fossils and other prehistoric creatures.
Franklin County High School / Virtual Worlds of Learning- Experience a 3D virtual fossil K-12 educational expedition at the Grand Canyon created by our first National Fossil Day high school partner and Virtual Worlds of Learning.
Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission Dinosaur Park- Learn about the fossils of dinosaurs and other creatures found just outside of Washington DC, including Maryland’s state dinosaur: the giant Astrodon johnstoni!
Calvert Marine Museum- See amazing shark teeth and other fossils collected from the Chesapeake Bay Region.
Bureau of Land Management and United States Forest Service: See fossils from our federal lands and learn how they are cared for and studied for future generations.
George Washington University, University of Maryland, and Virginia Tech: Meet university paleontologist from the DC area and Virginia as they share their research projects from around the world.
Society of Vertebrate Paleontology- Learn about this professional network of paleontologist and its commitment to the research at federal and state lands and the protection of public fossil resources.
Wednesday, October 3rd, 2018
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
The National Mall event for National Fossil Day will be set up on the pathway between the Smithsonian Castle and the National Museum of Natural History which is between Madison Dr. NW and Jefferson D. SW.
contact us
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fossilday/index.htm
Florida
20.. Archaeology For Autism
5th Annual Archaeologists for Autism
The Archaeologists for Autism mission is to unlock the potential of children and young adults with developmental disabilities. We aim to provide children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders and their families a chance to experience archaeology (and paleontology) in a fun, low stress environment. Our event includes fossil displays as well as a fossil "excavation pit"
Saturday, October 20th, 2018
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Historic Sams House at the Pine Island Conservation Area, 6295 North Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, Florida
Tom Penders, 321-707-0075, Nell Penders 321-307-1314, email:arch4autism@gmail.com
archaeologistsforautism.net
21. Florida Museum of Natural History
Permian Monsters Exhibit Opening and National Fossil Day Celebration
Join the Museum for a fun-for-all-ages celebration of its newest featured exhibit, Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs and explore the world before dinosaurs roamed the earth. Meet paleontologists and geologists who work every day to uncover the secrets these ancient remains reveal about past life on Earth. Enjoy this FREE, fun-for-all-ages event with hands-on activities, fossil displays and a dig pit. Bring your objects for identification and talk to members of Florida fossil clubs to learn what fossils can be found around the state!
Saturday, September 29th, 2018
10:00 AM- 3:00 PM
Florida Museum of Natural History, Powell Hall, 3215 Hull Road, Gainesville, FL
Name: Catherine Carey, Florida Museum
Phone: 352-273-2064
Email: ccarey@flmnh.ufl.edu
https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/visit/
Georgia
22. Fernbank Museum of Natural History
National Fossil Day: Tadpole Tales
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
In celebration of National Fossil Day, preschoolers are invited to enjoy a story and special activity with a Fernbank educator featuring Bones, Bones, Dinosaur Bones by Byron Barton.
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
11:30 AM to 11:50 PM
767 Clifton Rd NE
Atlanta, GA, 30307
United States
404-929-6300, marketing@fernbankmuseum.org
http://www.fernbankmuseum.org/
23. William P. Wall Museum of Natural History at Georgia College
National Fossil Day ID and Presentation
Do you have old bones or fossils that you've been wondering about? We can help. This event includes a presentation on Fossil Snakes of Georgia by paleoherpetologist, Dr. Dennis Parmley. Free event.
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
221 N. Wilkinson Street (530.13 mi)
Milledgeville, Georgia 31061
www.gcsu.edu/nhm
24. Ocumulgee National Monument
National Park Service
National Fossil Day is an annual celebration held to highlight the scientific and educational value of paleontology and the importance of preserving fossils for future generations. The official National Fossil Day for 2018 is on October 17th, but we are celebrating a little early on October 6th!
Join us in the Visitor Center rotunda to see fossils from 10am to 3pm!
1207 Emery Hwy
Macon, GA 31217
Phone: (478) 752-8257 x222
https://www.nps.gov/ocmu/index.htm
Idaho
25. Idaho Museum of Natural History
National Fossil Day at the Idaho Museum of Natural History
Family Fossil Sorting- Come help the museum sort through material containing fossils. You will learn how scientists sift through fossil containing material to find fossils by actually doing it. After you find the bones, scientists will be on hand to help you identify and classify the material. We will then add it to our collection. This activity is for citizen scientists ages 8 through adult.
October 17, 2018
4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Idaho Museum of Natural History-Discovery Room, 698 Dillon Street, Pocatello, Idaho 83209
Virginia Jones-208-282-2195 jonevir2@isu.edu
imnh.isu.edu
26. City of Hagerman
Fossil Days Parade
City of Hagerman and the Hagerman Valley Foundation
A fossil celebration parade with continued celebration in the Hagerman City park.
Parade: 11 am to 1pm, park celebration: 1 pm to 5 pm
October 6th, 2018
Illinois
27. Burpee Museum of Natural History
Burpee Museum’s National Fossil Day 2018
Programs Include: Local Fossil Collectors & Exhibitors Hands On Fossil Activities Screening for Microvertebrates Fossil ID’s (bring your fossils!) Jane’s REAL skull (a rare treat, hardly ever on display).
Saturday, October 6th, 2018
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 north main street, Rockford, IL 61103
Brandi Blaesing brandi.blaesing@burpee.org 815-965-3433
www.Burpee.org
28. Field Museum
Take a special guided tour through the halls of the Field Museum and learn about the fascinating story of not only the fossils on display, but the people who unearthed them. This will be a unique tour developed specially to celebrate National Fossil Day.
Tour times: 10:30, 12:30, 1:30, 3:30
Free with normal admission
Indiana
29. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Paleopalooza
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Attention dinosaur enthusiasts! Join us for hands-on dinosaur activities and a special performance of Bucky Lives!, our interactive dino show. Meet our Extraordinary Scientists-in-Residence, Dr. Victoria Egerton and Dr. Phil Manning. Chat with cowboy Bucky Derflinger, the namesake and discoverer of our famous dinosaur. Take a photo at our immersive T. rex photo op, featuring a life-like sculpture by paleo artist Brian Cooley.
Saturday, October 13, 2018
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208
317-334-4000
www.childrensmuseum.org
30. Falls of the Ohio State Park
Celebrate National Fossil Day at the Falls of the Ohio State Park. Free admission beginning at 5 PM, courtesy the Falls of the Ohio Foundation. Guest speaker – Dale Brown, Falls of the Ohio State Park, speaks from 7 to 8 PM on “The Birth of Paleontology” – learn about how and where the science of paleontology first took hold. Activities include fossil-related crafts – build a sea lily, weather rocks, design a Devonian ecosystem, hike the fossil beds, find fossils on the collecting piles, and more. Enjoy free refreshments with a fossil theme. Fossil-themed refreshments in the lobby Free admission!
7:00 to 8:00 PM, The birth of Paleontology
Dale Brown, Falls of the Ohio State Park
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
5:00 PM- 8:00 PM
Falls of the Ohio State Park
201 W Riverside Dr, Clarksville, Indiana 47129
www.fallsoftheohio.org
Kansas
31. Sternberg Museum of Natural History
National Fossil Day 2018
Join us on Sunday, October 14th for our National Fossil Day celebration as we explore this year's theme "The Age of Reptiles: Not Just Dinosaurs". We will dive into the ocean ecosystems that thrived in Kansas while dinosaurs ruled the land. Admission to the Museum will be FREE all day and with activities for all ages!
Sunday, October 14th, 2018
1:00 PM- 5:00 PM
Sternberg Museum of Natural History
3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, Kansas 67601
sternberg.fhsu.edu
Maine
32. L.C. Bates Museum
Fascinating Fossils
Have fun exploring fossils from the museum collections and learn about plant, animal and track fossils.
Do a fossil scavenger hunt, touch some dino bone fossils, make a fossil mold and more.
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
3:00 PM- 4:00 PM
L. C. Bates Museum
14 Easler Road
Hinckley, ME 04944
Contact Information:
207-238-4250
lcbates@gwh.org
gwh.org/lcbates
Maryland
33. Calvert Marine Museum
Be a paleontologist for the day! Ongoing activities include: digging for “dinosaur bones” in the Discovery Room sandbox, a scavenger hunt filled with fun dinosaur facts that ends with participants cracking a dinosaur egg, and making a dino hat. Scheduled activities at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. include: excavating real fossils from matrix, singing special dinosaur songs and learning the dinosaur stomp dance. Activities appropriate for ages 4-10.
FREE with museum admission.
Friday, October 19, 2018 at 10 AM – 4 PM
Calvert Marine Museum
14200 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, Maryland 20688
www.calvertmarinemuseum.com
34., 35. The Natural History Society of Maryland
Fossil Hunting Adventures in Western Maryland
Join us for a day of fossil collecting! We plan on collecting near Lake Koon /Lake Gordon, PA (approximately 40 minutes away from our meeting point at Staples). This location has Oriskany sandstone, a geologic formation containing fossils such as Spirifer, Brachiopods, Platystoma, Platyceras, and Crinoids as old as the Devonian period. Prepare to hunt for fossils for 3 or 4 hours at this location. Group leaders will survey participants about remaining at this location or to continue hunting at additional sites.
Location: Meet Nick Spero at the edge of the parking lot near the tall sign for Staples and other stores in that center. Participants will caravan or drive independently in cas they choose to end their fossil hunting early.
Cost: $15.00 for NHSM Fossil Club members, $25.00 for non-members. You must register and prepay to attend at: http://marylandnature.org/events/.
What to bring: Bottled water, brown bag lunch, snacks, sunscreen, tick spray, something to put fossils in (plastic pill bottles, plastic bags, etc…), toilet paper for wrapping fragile fossils and well, whatever.
What to wear: Boots, normal hiking gear, hat/sunscreen, and tick spray.
The Natural History Society of Maryland is a volunteer-led non-profit organization, so the fee you pay will go directly to support the programs, the nature collections, and the building that make this kind of nature education possible. We hope you consider becoming a member of NHSM, please follow this link to join: https://marylandnature.org/support-maryland-nature/. Thank you for your support!
September 29th and 30th.
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day
1230 National Hwy, LaVale, MD 21502
Massachusetts
36. Oak Bluffs Library
National Fossil Day
Martha’s Vineyard Environmental Alliance
Presenters who will display materials and share knowledge include geological oceanographer Dr. Maurice Tivey of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI); educators Betsy Dripps and Kendra Buresch of The Polly Hill Arboretum; Dr. Ann McNichol, senior research specialist at the National Ocean Sciences radiocarbon dating facility at WHOI; paleontologist Jessica Cundiff and zoologists Joe Martinez, Erich Dieffenbach, and Scott Smyers of the Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology; undersea divers and collectors Heidi Raihofer and Joe Leonardo; tenth and eighth grade collectors Jacob and Sam Gurney; archaeologist, author, and collector Bill Moody; marine ecologist Wendy Culbert, ornithologist Robert Culbert, student Anne Culbert; paleobiologist Fred Hotchkiss, and others.
National Fossil Day at the Oak Bluffs Library is partially supported by a grant from the Martha’s Vineyard Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
Thursday, October 18th, 2018
4:00 PM - 7:45 PM
http://oakbluffslibrary.org/
Michigan
37. Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve
National Fossil Day Display
National Fossils Day is Wednesday, October 17, and we are celebrating with an amazing display of fossils from Fernwood’s collection and that of staff member, Ralph Reitz. Fossilized ferns, fish, shells, wood, and even dinosaur scat are available for you to enjoy. Sunday, October 14: Fossils Nature Station
Free with admission.
Sunday, October 14, 2018
Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve
13988 Range Line Rd, Niles, Michigan 49120
www.fernwoodbotanical.org
38. Michigan State University
National Fossil Day
Michigan State Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU)
The MSU Museum celebrates National Fossil Day on Sunday, October 14, 2018, 1-4 p.m., an afternoon of fossil fun!
Michigan fossil dig & sift
Junior Paleontologist hunt
Fossil molds to make and take
Face painting
“Ask the Expert”: a paleontologist will be on hand to answer your fossil questions and to identify specimens
Fossil puzzle station
Fossil ID competition with prizes
Special opportunity: A “fossils only” version of MESTA’s famous Rock Shop will be set up for educators to acquire invertebrate fossils for study in the classroom or at home.
In partnership with Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association (MESTA), brought to you by Michigan State University Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU)
National Fossil Day (NFD) is a celebration organized by The National Park Service and the American Geosciences Institute to promote public awareness and stewardship of fossils, as well as to foster a greater appreciation of their scientific and educational value.
October 14th, 2018
1:00 PM- 4:00 PM
MSU Museum
409 West Circle Drive
East Lansing. MI 48824
Nick VanAcker
vanack22@msu.edu
517-432-1472
https://www.museum.msu.edu/?event=national-fossil-day
Minnesota
39. The Science Museum of Minnesota
The Science Museum of Minnesota will be celebrating National Fossil Day on Saturday, October 13th with various extra fossil-related stations set up throughout the museum from Noon to 4pm. Visitors can discover the museum's world class fossils - both favorites and rarely-seen specimens - and meet Dr. Alex Hastings, the museum's new Fitzpatrick Chair of Paleontology!
Dr. Alex Hastings will introduce himself on the Atrium Stage at 10 a.m., followed by a meet and greet with dinosaur lovers of all ages. Then from noon to 4 p.m., try your hand at make-and-take activities that explore the fascinating things that fossils can tell us.
Mississippi
40. Dunn-Seiler Museum
Fossil Extravaganza and Fossil Art & Story Contest
Dunn-Seiler Museum, Department of Geosciences, Mississippi State University
Open House at the Dunn-Seiler, with tours, family activities, free fossils, and refreshments
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Dunn-Seiler Museum, 355 Lee, Mississippi State, MS 39762
rclary@geosci.msstate.edu
Fossil Art & Story Contest Information
Creative competition to recreate a Mesozoic reptile that lived in Mississippi OR write a creative story featuring a Mesozoic reptile
Winners to be announced and displayed at the Dunn-Seiler Museum for National Fossil Day
Contact Museum Director, Dr. Renee Clary (rclary@geosci.msstate.edu), for entry or questions.
Fossil Art & Story contest for Mississippi's K-12 students
Missouri
41. Bollinger County Museum of Natural History
National Fossil Day Celebration
Celebrate National Fossil Day at the Bollinger County Museum of Natural History in Marble Hill, Missouri on Saturday, October 13, 2018 from 12:00 (noon) to 4:00 p.m.
Bring your fossils, finds, rocks, and artifacts for identification by our experts from 1:00-4:00P.M.
Enjoy a Native American tools display from 1:00PM to 4:00PM.
Try your hand at different types of primitive skills while you explore the world of ancient cultures.
Our museum pays honor to the Missouri Dinosaur, Hypsibema missouriensis, in our Missouri Dinosaur Discovery exhibit. Exploring fossils and ancient life forms helps us understand the history of life, past climates, and ancient landscapes. We invite you to explore Missouri’s rich fossil record with us.
Fun activities include: Museum Fossil Scavenger Hunt, children's fossil “dig”, children’s dinosaur “dig”, and other fossil related activities.
Free Missouri fossil prizes for completing fossil scavenger hunt.
All activities are free with your paid museum admission.
Museum Admission: Adults $5 each and 17 years and under $2 each
Saturday, October 13th, 2018
12:00 PM- 4:00 PM
For more information email: bcmnh@sbcglobal.net or phone: 573-238-1174.
Visit our website at: https://www.bcmnh.org
Montana
42. Makoshika State Park
Montana Dinosaur Trail
Join us for the first annual National Fossil Day event at Makoshika State Park. Park staff and our local paleontology partners, Baisch’s Montana Dinosaur Digs, LLC and Frontier Gateway Museum will present fun activities and games from 1pm to 3pm. As part of the event, the Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum will also have a discounted entrance fee that day of $5.00.
Attendees should dress appropriately for weather. For more information, call the park visitor center at (406) 377-6256.
Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 1 PM – 3 PM MDT
Makoshika State Park
Glendive, Montana 59330
makoshika@mt.gov
43. Carter County Museum
Montana Dinosaur Trail
Paleo-themed activities include "making your own amber," micro-site identification and sorting, fossil cast painting and more during regular museum hours
Thursday, October 11, 2018 at 9 AM – 5 PM MDT
Carter County Museum
306 Main St N, Ekalaka, Montana 59324
44. University of Montana Paleontology Center
National Fossil Day Celebration
University of Montana Paleontology Center
Celebrate National Fossil Day with the UM Paleontology Center (UMPC) for an open house! The UMPC will be open from 5-8pm for tours of the displays and the research collections, fossil identifications, kids activities and more.
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
C. H. Clapp Building, University of Montana, Missoula campus
Kallie Moore, email preferred kallie.moore@mso.umt.edu or 406.243.5406
http://www.cas.umt.edu/paleo
45. Museum of the Rockies
National Fossil Day
Museum of the Rockies
Celebrate National Fossil Day with Museum of the Rockies (MOR), the Children’s Museum of Bozeman (CMB), and the Bozeman Public Library (BPL) with dinosaur-themed activities all day long at all three locations.
-
10 – 11 a.m. at MOR for Sensational Babies featuring a dinosaur dig and dinosaur-themed stories
-
10:15 & 11:15 a.m. at BPL for Little Ones Storytime featuring dinosaur and fossil stories
-
12 – 3 p.m. at CMB for Fossil activities at the Science Station and Maker Place with MOR's Rocky Rex
-
2 – 3 p.m. at MOR for Tours for Tots: Bones!
-
3:30 – 5 p.m. at BPL for Meet MOR’s Rocky Rex and touch real fossils
-
5 – 7 p.m.at at CMB for Open lab in the STEAMlab with dinosaurs
*National Fossil Day events are free at MOR and BPL and included with admission at CMB. Admission applies if you wish to access MOR’s main museum and exhibits.
October 17th, 2018
10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
https://museumoftherockies.org/calendar/event/national-fossil-da/2018-10-17
Nevada
46. Lovelady Brewing
National Fossil Day
Lovelady Brewing
Our favorite paleontologist, Josh, from whose findings in Nevada we named the Paleo Porter after, is going to be showing off fossils in the taproom to celebrate National Fossil Day!
To top it off, all pints of Paleo Porter will be $4 and pitchers of Paleo will be $16!
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Lovelady Brewing
20 S Water St, Henderson, Nevada 89015
loveladybrewing.com
47. Las Vegas Natural History Museum
Fossil Day
Las Vegas Natural History Museum and Protectors of Tule Springs
Celebrate National Fossil Day at the Museum! Join the Protectors of Tule Springs and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum as we celebrate fossil discovery in Southern Nevada.
October 13th, 2018
10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Las Vegas Natural History Museum, 900 Las Vegas Blvd North, Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 384–3466
https://www.lvnhm.org/
New Jersey
48. New Jersey State Museum
Earth Science Week/ National Fossil Day
Our paleontologists will be on hand from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, explaining this year's theme, Paleozoic fish, and their special significance for New Jersey. Visitors will see the actual fossils of these strange animals of 400,000,000 years ago and learn how we find and study their bony skeletons. Explore New Jersey's wonderful heritage of fossils, on display throughout the Natural History Hall, and feel free to ask our scientists any questions you may have about New Jersey natural history.
October 10th through October 13th, 2018
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
New Jersey State Museum, 205 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08625
https://www.state.nj.us/state/museum/index.html
49. Rutgers University Geology Museum
Fossils and Dinosaurs Late Night
Rutgers Geology Museum
Take a step back in time to discover the different types of dinosaurs and other creatures that inhabited Earth during the Paleozoic, Mesozoic and Cenozoic Eras! Demonstrations, arts and crafts and educational activities will be set up around the museum and people are welcome to come and go as they please. The event is free and open to visitors of all ages!
Wednesday, October 3, 2018
4-8 pm
Rutgers University Geology Museum, Geology Hall, 2nd Floor, 85 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
geologymuseum@sas.rutgers.edu
https://geologymuseum.rutgers.edu/museum-events/late-nights/63-geology-museum/museum-events/late-nights/224-fossils-and-dinosaurs-late-night
New Mexico
50. Mesalands Dinosaur Museum and Natural Sciences Laboratory
National Fossil Day Celebration!
Mesalands Community College
In recognition of National Fossil Day, Mesalands Dinosaur Museum will offer free admission to all exhibits
October 12th and 13th, 2018
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Mesalands Community College's Dinosaur Museum and Natural Sciences Laboratory 222 East Laughlin Tucumcari. NM 88401
(575) 461-3466
https://www.mesalands.edu/community/dinosaur-museum/
51. New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
National Fossil Day Celebration
New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Friends of Paleontology, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Prehistoric Trackways National Monument, Society of Vertebrate Paleontology.
The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science will be hosting a National Fossil Day Celebration within its museum atrium. Hang out with T-rex as museum staff and volunteers, along with partners from the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, present activities, special fossil displays, and giveaways. Kids will be able to swear in as a Junior Paleontologist through the National Park Service when they complete their Junior Paleontologist handbook at the museum. The Bureau of Land Management and Prehistoric Trackways National Monument will show fossils from this fossil site. The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology will be presenting information on its professional netwrok of paleontologist and its commitment to research at federal and state lands and the protection of public fossil resources.
The museum will also be having two special paleontology exhibits: Picturing the Past, a special juried exhibition of art inspired by paleontology and fossils; Back to Bones: New Mexico’s Link to the Past, an exhibit which will showcase fossil specimens rarely seen on exhibit.
Wednesday ,October 17th, 2018
10:00 AM- 2:00 PM
http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/
52. Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science
Fossil Day at the Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science
The Bureau of Land Management Las Cruces District and Prehistoric Trackways National Monument (PTNM) are partnering with the Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science (MoNaS) and the New Mexico State University Department of Biology to celebrate National Fossil Day 2018. The MoNaS will be open to the public on Main Street during the popular downtown Farmer’s Market. Docents will be available to provide tours of the exhibits, which include BLM fossil specimens from Prehistoric Trackways National Monument and live reptiles from the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. Dr. Peter Houde, NMSU Biology Department, will also bring and discuss fossil specimens of more recent Plio-Pleistocene mammals found in the District. The BLM and MoNaS will set up touch stations for the public to examine both fossil casts and real ichnofossil trackway slabs, as well as a fossil craft station for the kids, and a Geology and Paleontology BLM Junior Ranger activity station.
Saturday, October 13th, 2018
9am-12pm
Museum of Nature and Science, 411 North Main Street, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88001
Stephanie Hawkins
Education Curator/Quality of Life/Las Cruces Museum System
Direct: 575-532-3372 Main: 575-522-3120
shawkins@las-cruces.org
Colin Dunn
Bureau of Land Management, Monument Paleontologist/Geologist
575-525-4454
e-mail us
http://www.las-cruces.org/departments/quality-of-life/museum-system/museum-of-nature-and-science
https://www.blm.gov/visit/ptnm
https://www.facebook.com/BLMLasCruces/
New York
53. American Museum of Natural History
National Fossil Day: Drop-In Events for School Groups
The School Groups Visits Program at American Museum of Natural History
In celebration of National Fossil Day, this special event will help students understand how studying fossils teaches us about the history of life, past climates, and ancient landscapes. Activities explore fossil formation, extinction theories, fossil diversity and much more.
October 17th, 2018
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024-5192
212-769-5100
https://www.amnh.org/plan-your-visit/school-or-camp-field-trips/programs-for-school-groups/drop-in-events-for-school-groups/national-fossil-day/
54. Museum of the Earth, Paleontological Research Institution
FOSSIL MANIA
Museum of the Earth at the Paleontological Research Institution
This event is a fun and educational event with hands-on activities to help you explore and discover fossils in many ways. We have lots of cool late Cretaceous fossils to explore. From the life-sized Quetzelcoatlus that flew the skies to the strange heteromorph who lived in the oceans. Museum of the Earth has something for all to learn and experience.
Saturday, October 13, 2018
10 am – 1 pm
Museum of the Earth- Ithaca, NY 14850
607-273-6623 x33
Priweb.org
North Carolina
55., 56., 57. Imagination Station Science and History Museum
National Fossil Day
Join us as we celebrate National Fossil Day at Imagination Station. During our celebration, future paleontologist will have the opportunity to dig for their own fossils, check out fossil displays, and more!
October 17, 2018
3:00 - 5:00 PM
224 Nash Street East, Wilson, NC 27893
Justin White, jwhite@imaginescience.org, 252-291-5113
Scienceandhistory.org
Educator Treks- Fossil Hunt
Step back into the past with Director of Education, Justin White leads you into one of Easter North Carolina's most productive fossil sites. At the Greens Mill Run fossil hunters can find a variety of fossils ranging from shark teeth, to whale bones, to mosasaur teeth and more! Participants will be able to keep their finds and receive an ID chart to help identify their finds.
October 13, 2018
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
224 Nash Street East, Wilson, NC 27893
Justin White, jwhite@imaginescience.org, 252-291-5113
scienceandhistory.org
Homeschool Science Club: Fossil Collecting 101
Explore the past with us as we discuss fossil collecting and what we can learn from fossils. Participants will have the opportunity to find their own fossils and receive a specimen box to organize and catalog their finds just as paleontologists do!
October 19, 2018
2:00 - 3:00 PM
224 Nash Street East, Wilson, NC 27893
Justin White, jwhite@imaginescience.org, 252-291-5113
scienceandhistory.org
58. McKinney Geology Museum at Appalachian State University
National Fossil Day
Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences at AppState
Learn about our paleo faculty and students' current projects, dig through fossils and check out the inside of our new mobile lab!
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
McKinney Geology Teaching Museum (Rankin Science West), 108 Rankin Science South 572 Rivers Street, Boone, NC 28608
For more information contact Marta Toran (toranml@appstate.edu)
59. Aurora Fossil Museum
Aurora Fossil Museum National Fossil Day Celebration
Aurora Fossil Museum Foundation, Inc.
Event will include Fossil Displays by members of the North Carolina Fossil Club Inc.; Fossil Talks; Games & Prizes including Fossil Jeopardy and a Fossil Scavenger Hunt; Art in the Fossil Park; Community Watch cookout; and Live Music.
Saturday, October 6th, 2018
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
397 - 400 Main Street and along Main Street (Main Street around the museum will be blocked off during the event)
Cynthia Crane, Executive Director; events@aurorafossilmuseum.org / 252-322-4238
aurorafossilmuseum.org
North Dakota
60. Fargo Public Library, Main Library
Celebrate National Fossil Day @ Your Library Fargo Public Library
NDSU Herpetology Club, NDSU’s Geosciences Department, Fargo Public Library.
Since the theme for National Fossil Day 2018 is The Age of Reptiles – More Than Just Dinosaurs, we’ve invited some very special cold-blooded guests to join us for a celebration! Meet our live reptilian guests and explore some extraordinary fossils when members of the NDSU Herpetology Club and staff from NDSU’s Geosciences Dept. help us celebrate. Kids can also complete a themed activity. No pre-registration is required for this all-ages event
Saturday October 20th, 2018
Main Library - 102 3rd St N, Fargo, ND 58102
701-241-1495
http://fargond.gov/city-government/departments/library
61. Grand Forks Public Library and the Dakota Science Center
STEM @ the Library Earth Systems
Grand Forks Public Library and the Dakota Science Center
Geology and Earth Science STEM activities for families
October 14th, 2018
Grand Forks Public Library
Dr. Laura Munski, Dakota.Science@gmail.com
http://gflibrary.com/
Ohio
62. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
National Fossil Day
National Park Service
Join a fossil-hunting expedition for young and old, exploring the rocks of Furnace Run. Wear Shoes that can get wet. Meet at Everett Road Covered Bridge. 9:30 - 11 a.m.
Saturday, October 20th, 2018
2370 Everett Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264-9691, United States
www.nps.gov/cuva.
63. Cincinnati Museum Center
Fossil Day at Cincinnati Museum Center
Celebrate #NationalFossil Day with us! Meet our very own Curator of Invertebrate Paleontology, Dr. Brenda Hunda in Animal Spot, as she brings out some Cincinnati fossils from our collections and talks about the life that lived long ago in the sea that once covered Cincinnati.
No registration is required. Free for CMC Members or with admission into the Duke Energy Children's Museum.
About Duke Energy Children's Museum:
www.cincymuseum.org/childrensmuseum
About Dr. Brenda Hunda: www.cincymuseum.org/blog/author/4137/Brenda-Hunda%2C-Curator-of-Invertebrate-Paleontology
Wednesday, October 10th, 2017
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Cincinnati Museum Center
1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati OH, 45203
www.cincymuseum.org
64. Cleveland Museum of Natural History
National Earth Science and International Archaeology Day!
Dig into archaeology, geology, mineralogy and more from 10am to 4pm Saturday, October 13. This event is included with general admission. Members get in free! Non-members: Free with general admission.
Talk with Museum curators, volunteers and staff from the departments of:
Meet guest scientists and representatives from local clubs and societies including:
-
Buckeye Chapter of the Gold Prospectors Association of America
-
Cleveland Geological Society
-
Cleveland Grotto of the National Speleological Society
-
North Coast Fossil Club
-
Parma Lapidary Club
-
Shaker Historical Society
Bring in a fossil, rock, mineral or artifact for identification
Visit the Educator Resource Center on the Museum's lower level and see archaeology and Earth science teaching kits from 10am to 1pm
Assemble a pottery puzzle and take part in a rock matching activity in Smead Discovery Center on the Museum’s lower level
Enter a free raffle hosted by the Cleveland Geological Society. A winner will be chosen every hour! (must be present to claim your prize).
October 13th, 2018
10:00 AM to close
Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland OH 44106
https://www.cmnh.org/archaeology-earth-science-day
65. Ohio Statehouse
National Fossil Day-Ohio Statehouse Fossil Tour
Join us for National Fossil Day, held during Earth Science Week, and enjoy a Statehouse Fossil Tour--a geology tour of the Statehouse with special guest Dale M. Gnidovic, Curator of the OSU Orton Geological Museum. Experts will discuss the "Building Stones of the Capitol."
For more information, visit ohiostatehouse.org.
To reserve a free spot, call 614-728-2130 or lstedke@ohiostatehouse.org.
October 17th, 2018
12:00 PM- 1:00 PM
http://www.ohiostatehouse.org/
Oregon
66. University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History
National Fossil Day Walk & Talks
Museum of Natural and Cultural History
Celebrate National Fossil Day at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History! Join a fossil-focused Walk & Talk through our Explore Oregon exhibit and dig into Oregon's deep natural history. Talks start at noon, 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 p.m. Included with regular admission; free for members and UO ID card holders.
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
Museum of Natural and Cultural History 1680 East 15th Avenue Eugene, OR 97403
mnch@uoregon.edu/ 541-346-3024
natural-history.uoregon.edu
Pennsylvania
67.Toy Box Gifts and Wonder
National Fossil Day at Toy Box Gifts and Wonder
15% OFF all dig kits!
Spend $25 or more and receive a FREE fossil!
Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at 10 AM – 5 PM
Toy Box Gifts & Wonder
42 S. Main St., Chambersburg, Pennsylvania 17201
68. Middle Smithfield Township
National Fossil Day & 3rd Marshalls Creek Mastodon Event
Middle Smithfield Township and Middle Smithfield Township Historical Commission
National Fossil Day is every October, and this
autumn it “falls” on
October 17
th. National Fossil Day was established in the United
States by the National Park Service to promote the scientific and
educational values of fossils--such as the discovery of our very own Marshalls Creek Mastodon !
Generally, National Fossil Day is commemorated by the education and stewardship of fossils through enabling children to better understand the history of life, science of paleontology and other educational objectives through a wide variety of
classroom, museum, field trip and outdoor activities.
Field Paleontologists, Mike and Roberta Straka
Present… DinosaurDig Show
Mike & Roberta’s presentation will covers how
they discover dinosaurs and they will even be
Bringing along "Mr. Nixon", an eight foot Triceratops skull, they discovered in 1996 and an Albertosaurus skull.
The program will include show & tell with rare and unusual fossils. In addition, Mike & Roberta will host the “Dinosaur Game Show”. Guests will also be treated to a fun science experiment with a touch of magic!
About Mike & Roberta...
Mike and Roberta Straka are field paleontologists who have been conducting and managing paleontological digs in North and South Dakota since 1978. Each year, they teach paleontology and geology in elementary schools and libraries throughout New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. In addition, Mike is the lead curator for teams’ fossil collection.
Wednesday October 17th, 2018
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Whispering Pines Banquet Hall (1445 Big Ridge Dr., E. Stroudsburg, Pa 18302)
PLEASE RSVP TO: Dana at (570) 223-8920 x 121 by Wednesday, October 10th
69. Ridley Creek State Park
National Fossil Day
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
Join DCNR Park Naturalist for a special hands on exhibit along the Multi-Use Trail to celebrate National Fossil Day. While the geology of Ridley Creek State Park consists of cambrian age metamorphic gneiss that does not contain fossils, many are found throughout other areas of Pennsylvania's State Park System.
See real specimens up close while learning about how fossils are formed, the kind of geology where they can be found and some of the ancient life that once roamed our world. Registration not required.
October 17th, 2018
11:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Ridley Creek State Park, 1023 Sycamore Mills Rd., Media, PA 19063-4398
http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/national_fossil_day
70. The State Museum of Pennsylvania
2018 National Fossil Day/Learn at Lunchtime: National Fossil Day the Giant Fossils of Pennsylvania
Join us in celebrating National Fossil Day™ on Wednesday, October 17 in the Paleontology Gallery. Meet with Sid Hostetter, State Museum Volunteer as he examines Giant fossils of Pennsylvania
This event is included with General Admission to the Museum.
National Fossil Day is hosted by the National Park Service and the American Geosciences Institute during Earth Science Week in October. National Fossil Day is a celebration organized to promote public awareness and stewardship of fossils, as well as to foster a greater appreciation of their scientific and educational value.
October 17th, 2018
12:15 PM
State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North St. Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 787-4980, ra-phstatemuseum@pa.gov
http://statemuseumpa.org/
Tennessee
71. Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History
National Fossil Day
Tennessee STEAM Festival and Earth Experience
Free with Admission
The Earth Experience Museum will be open on extended hours as part of the Tennessee STEAM Festival and as part of National Fossil Day. There will be a kids' fossil dig, geologists on site to answer questions and special exbhits: a full size Stegosaurus statue 25 feet long and a cast of a Trex leg 12 feet tall.
Friday, October 12th, 2018
10:00 AM- 5:00 PM
816 Old Salem Rd (543.60 mi)
Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
www.theearthexperience.org
72. Alex’s Rock Shop
National Fossil Day at Alex’s Rock Shop
Alex's Rock Shop Presents a National Fossil Day Celebration. There will be fun educational events, panels, speakers, games, and more. We will be adding additional details as they are solidified.
Saturday, October 20th, 2018
12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
(931) 536-1626
Alexsrockshop.com
73. McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture
Can you Dig it?
McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture
Archaeologists and paleontologists and their graduate students from the University of Tennessee will present on displays about their projects across the world, and talk with public about their work. Visitors can also bring artifacts, rocks, and fossils for identification. A number of activities for children, including games and take home crafts related to archaeology, will be available. All activities are free and open to the public.
Sunday, October 28th, 2018
1:30- 5:00
McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture, 1327 Circle Park Drive Knoxville, TN 37996
Leslie Chang Jantz, Curator of Education, lcjantz@utk.edu
https://mcclungmuseum.utk.edu/events/family-fun-day-10-14-2018/
Texas
74.Big Bend National Park
Supercroc Celebration & Fossil Weekend
Big Bend National Park, National Park Service
Ribbon cutting of new giant metal cutout of one of our famous fossil finds (Deinosuchus) at our Fossil Discovery Exhibit along with special programs and activities in celebration of National Fossil Day and Big Bend's fossil story.
November 16th and 17th, 2018
various times including- Friday cookies and punch with kids activities and a touch table of fossils 10AM-12PM, special evening program 730PM // Saturday touch table of fossils 10AM-12PM and afternoon ranger program at 3PM
Various park locations to include- Panther Junction visitor center, Chisos Basin amphitheater, and Fossil Discovery Exhibit
Maria Lavender maria_lavender@nps.gov 432-477-1196
nps.gov/bibe
75. Mayborn Museum
National Fossil Day Celebration
Baylor University
Explore fossils by digging through gravel, searching for fossils, making their own fossil, and examining rising sea levels
Wednesday, October 17th, 2018
10:00 AM - 12: 00 PM
Mayborn Museum, One Bear Place #97154, Waco, TX 76798-7154
Anna_R_McKay@baylor.edu
www.maybornmuseum.com
76. Dallas Paleontological Society and the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
National Fossil Day Celebration
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary and Dallas Paleo Society
Come explore the exciting world of fossils with members of the Dallas Paleontological Society. Learn about ancient Texas, see casts of animals, and become a member of the "PIT" Crew (Paleontologists in Training). You can even bring in your own fossils and have them identified. This event is included in general admission and free for Heard Museum members.
October 6th, 2018
1:30 PM- 4:00 PM
info@heardmuseum.org/972-562-5566
www.heardmuseum.org
77. Waco Mammoth National Monument
Fall Fossil Festival
City of Waco
Family friendly event full of fossils, food, fuzzy friends, and fun. Tour our dig site. Have fun with arts and crafts, face painting, and games. Paint a pumpkin. Enjoy this relaxed fall-themed festival with our friendly park rangers.
October 13, 2018
9:00a-5:00p
Waco Mammoth National Monument, 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco TX 76708
Raegan King raegank@wacotx.gov Waco Mammoth National Monument 254-750-7946
nps.gov/waco and wacomammoth.org
Utah
78.Dinosaur National Monument
Rocktoberfest
Celebrate Earth Science Week & National
Fossil Day at Dinosaur National Monument
Rock & Fossil Table
There are 23 different geologic formations exposed at Dinosaur. Take
a closer look at a few of the rocks and fossils found within them. On
display at the Quarry Visitor Center all month (and outside all year).
Fossil Discovery Hike
Meet at the Quarry Exhibit Hall shuttle stop for a 1.2 mile, 1.5 hour
ranger-led hike through several different rock layers. The hike ends at
the Quarry Visitor Center. Bring water and wear good shoes. You may
also hike this trail at any time with a self-guided brochure.
Quarry Talk
Meet in the Quarry Exhibit Hall to experience 150 million years in
15-25 minutes! Short talks available at the quarry any time on request.
Junior Ranger Program & Activity Books
Meet in the Quarry Exhibit Hall for a 20-30 minute program designed
especially for kids ages 5-12. At any time for any age: Request a free
Dinosaur Junior Ranger or National Junior Paleontologist activity
book, complete the activities recommended for your age, and earn a
different badge for each book.
The Wall of Bones: Live!
Meet in person in the Quarry Exhibit Hall
or tune in to Facebook.com/DinosaurNPS
for a 45 minute broadcast from the
world famous Wall of Bones.
Rock On with More Programs
www.earthsciweek.org
www.nps.gov/subjects/fossilday
Visit these websites to learn about other events across the country
Every Day, All Month
Rock & Fossil Table, Junior Ranger &
Junior Paleontologist Activity Books
Saturday, October 6
10:00 am - Fossil Discovery Hike
10:30 am - Quarry Talk
2:30 pm - Quarry Talk
Sunday, October 7
10:00 am - Fossil Discovery Hike
10:30 am - Quarry Talk
2:30 pm - Quarry Talk
Wednesday, October 10
10:00 am - The Wall of Bones: Live!
3:00 pm - The Wall of Bones: Live!
Saturday, October 13
10:00 am - Fossil Discovery Hike
10:30 am - Quarry Talk
2:30 pm - Quarry Talk
Wednesday, October 17
10:00 am - The Wall of Bones: Live!
Thursday, October 18
10:30 am - Jr Ranger Program
Friday, October 19
10:30 am - Jr Ranger Program
Saturday, October 20
10:00 am - Fossil Discovery Hike
10:30 am - Jr Ranger Program
2:30 pm - Jr Ranger Program
Sunday, October 21
10:30 am - Jr Ranger Program
79. Garth and Jerri Frehner Museum of Natural History, Southern Utah University
Amazing Fossil Discoveries on Your Public Lands
Garth and Jerri Frehner Museum of Natural History
Did you know that Utah is home to a Jurassic Dinosaur Death Pit? Or that the dinosaur centerpiece of the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC is a 90-foot long Diplodocus longus from Utah? The Garth and Jerri Frehner Museum of Natural History will be hosting a day long event celebrating the amazing fossils found on public lands all over the United States and how they have contributed to human understanding of life on Earth. Exhibits will be open from 9am until 5pm with a special kids fossil activity at 3 pm and an evening lecture by local scientists from 6:30-8:30 pm to discuss ancient DNA, paleontology in Utah, and the status of fossils on Utah's public lands.
10/17/2018
all day, see description
Garth and Jerri Frehner Museum of Natural History, Southern Utah University, on the corner of S 300 W and E 200 S, Cedar City, Utah.
Dr. Jacqualine Grant, jacqualinegrant@suu.edu, 435-865-8549
https://www.suu.edu/cose/museum/
Washington
80. Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
National Fossil Day
Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
Celebrate National Fossil Day™ and see live fossil preparation at the Burke! The doors will be open to our Testing, Testing 1-2-3: Work in Progress fossil prep lab so you can get up close to examine the incredible progress our paleontologists are making on the “Tufts-Love” T. rex skull and other fossils
Saturday, October 13, 2018
1–5 PM
Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, 1413 NE 45th St, Seattle, WA 98105
theburke@uw.edu | 206.616.3962
Burkemuseum.org
Wyoming
81. Fossil Butte National Monument
National Fossil Day Celebration
Fossil Butte National Monument
Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to help rangers prepare real fossil from the Green River Formation. Learn about the tools used to prepare fossils for study, and try your hand at uncovering 52 million year old fossils.
Saturday, October 13th, 2018
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Fossil Butte National Monument, 864 Chicken Creek Rd, Kemmerer, WY
307-877-4455, e-mail us
www.nps.gov/fobu
82. Tate Geological Museum at Casper College
National Fossil Day Open House
The Tate Geological Museum at Casper College
Join the Tate Geological Museum for fun fossil activities, crafts, tours and treats. Paint your own fossil cast, tour the Rex Annex, hunt for fossils and have your face painted while you enjoy punch and cookies! We will have door prizes for the kids and the ever popular Fossil Road Show, so bring in your rocks and fossils for identification.
October 20th, 2018
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Tate Geological Museum at Casper College. 125 College Drive, Casper, WY 82601
307-268-2447
https://www.caspercollege.edu/tate-geological-museum