Bugs Get Love at El Paso Zoo Bug Fest ’23

Insects. Creepy-crawlies. Bugs. Whichever way you refer to them, the El Paso Zoo will celebrate them at the return of Bug Fest.

You and the kids can learn about bugs – and even eat some – during the festival of insects happening on the weekend of May 20.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Bug Bites

If it squirms, slithers, or buzzes chances are it will be at the El Paso Zoo’s Bug Fest, the biggest bug bash of the year.

Live entertainment, arts and crafts, games, inflatables, and delightful decorations are always part of the fun.

You'll also have the opportunity to get an up-close look at a massive collection of exotic insects and arachnids -- if you're not too squeamish, that is.

Feeling a little famished and particularly adventurous? Go ahead and pop a crunchy bug delicacy or two in your mouth. I’m told the zoo's executive chef is busy preparing scrumptious menu items with grasshopper, scorpion, and cricket toppings. Yum, right? Right?

The Penguins are Coming

Bug Fest will also be a good time to take a peek at the progress and evolution of the future Penguin enclosure.

The exhibit is being built in the Americas section of the zoo directly across from the Reptile House and Spider Monkey enclosure. The state-of-the-art enclosure will be home to a colony of warm-weather Magellanic Penguins, and is expected to be completed sometime this year.

Bug Fest ‘23

Bug Fest celebrates all insects that are creepy, crawly, and crunchy.

Bug Fest happens Saturday and Sunday, May 20-21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days and is free with regular zoo admission. Zoo memberships are honored at this event.