Pollinator Palooza coming to Normal

Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, moths, and beetles are vital to our world—they’re responsible for nearly a third of the food we consume and support the growth of more than 80% of flowering plants each year.

Their role is crucial not only in sustaining ecosystems but in supporting human life, too! The University of Illinois Extension and Illinois Art Station are partnering to present this event celebrating the wonderful world of pollinators.

The Pollinator Palooza will be held Saturday, August 8 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Illinois Art Station, located at 101 E Vernon Ave, Normal, IL 61761.   

This family-friendly event will have something for everyone, including multiple community organizations offering a variety of activities, games, and artmaking, and information booths on all things pollinators, plants, and local nature spaces. Step inside Illinois Art Station's studios for hands-on pollinator art projects. Then, explore the ground's surrounding nature space for more activities outside, and to spot a few pollinators out and about.  

There is no cost or registration to attend. Parking for Illinois Art Station is available in the two large lots off Linden Avenue. The circular drive, accessed via Vernon Street, is reserved for accessible parking and event drop-off/pick-up only. Overflow parking is also available in the Underwood Park and Parkinson lots, both located off Linden Avenue. The Constitution Trail provides a direct route from these lots to Illinois Art Station. 

For more information about this event check out the events page at go.illinois.edu/PollinatorPalooza or on our social media channels. Come learn how you can help save the pollinators that are not only critical to our food supply and human survival but also make the world a more beautiful and interesting place.