National Fossil Day Events

Join in the fossil fun as national parks and partners hold National Fossil Day events across the country. Meet paleontologists, sift for fossils, go on scavenger hunts, and more. Most events are either on or around National Fossil Day.

This website will be updated with park and partner sponsored events as quickly as possible, but there are many other local, unafiliated, or guided fossil events that can be discovered elsewhere on the internet. Check the websites of your local community calendar, college, university, museum, or geologic society to see what they may be offering.

Hosting an event? Find more information on adding it to this list.

 

Last Update: October 5th, 2019

Alabama


  1. Alabama Museum of Natural History

National Fossil Day

Join us in a celebration of all things fossil during this National Parks Service established day of fossil appreciation and stewardship. Free and fun for all ages.

Wednesday, October 16th 2019

5:00 pm-7:00 pm

Smith Hall Grand Gallery, Alabama Museum of Natural History, 427 6th Avenue, Tuscaloosa, AL 35478

https://almnh.museums.ua.edu/


  1. University of West Alabama, Black Belt Museum

Fossils of the Black Belt 20 – A Hands-On Field Workshop

Sponsoring Organizations: Geological Survey of Alabama, University of West Alabama, Black Belt Museum, Discovering Alabama, Birmingham Paleontological Society, Alabama Geological Society

A field workshop in paleontology for K-12 teachers and other educators.

Date(s) of Event: October 15, 2019

Time: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Location: Harrell Station, a paleontological research site near Selma Alabama.

Contact Information: David C Kopaska-Merkel, dkm@gsa.state.al.us, 205-247-3695.

Website: https://www.gsa.state.al.us/


Alaska

  1. State of Alaska Geologic Materials Center

Alaska National Fossil Day

Celebrate National Fossil Day! Come see Alaska’s fossil shells, plants, dinosaurs, and more. Free public event! Alaskan Dinosaur Presentation by Anne Pasch at 10:00 am. Tour the facility to find out how 4,000,000 pounds of rocks are good for Alaska

October 19th, 2019. 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

3651 Penland Pkwy, Anchorage, Alaska

contact information: 907-696-0079

website: http://dggs.alaska.gov/gmc/


Arizona

  1. Arizona Museum of Natural History

Beer and Bones

Beer n' Bones is the annual 21+ fundraiser at AZMNH. It's a celebration of local and regional craft beverages and science on one informal, childless night. Events include Speed Date A Scientist, Beerology panel, and lots of snakes and lizards to cuddle! Catered by Short Leash Hotdogs, who have lots of vegan and vegetarian options. Dinosaurs and beer!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beer-n-bones-2019-tickets-60601826695

Fri, October 18, 2019

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Arizona Museum of Natural History

53 North Macdonald

Mesa, AZ 85201

  1. Petrified Forest National Park

National Fossil Day Event

National Park Service

October 16th, 2019

Events at the Painted Desert Visitor Center

Fossil Preparation Demonstration

Time: 9a-3p

Fossil Talks

Time: Every hour on the hour from 9a-2:45p

Make your own fossil activity table

Time: 9a-3p

Fossil Hike with a park paleontologist

Limited to 12 visitors

Time: 10a-12p

Events at Rainbow Forest Museum

Ask a paleontologist

Time: 1p-3p


  1. Grand Canyon National Park

National Fossil Day Special Event

National Park Service

Friday, September 27th

7:30-9:00 pm

Shrine of the Ages Auditorium

Join us for an evening of fossil discovery and learning with visiting paleontologists. Four guest speakers will highlight some of the Grand Canyon National Park's most notable fossil specimens.

Saturday, September 28th

9:00 - 10:00 am Fossil Walk

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.

10:00 am - 3:00 pm All Day Events

Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Yavapai Geology Museum

Meet with partner organizations such as American Geosciences Institute, Museum of Northern Arizona, Southwestern Paleontological Society, and more!

10:00 am - 12:00 pm Fun with Fossils!

Yavapai Geology Museum

Discover why fossils are important. Fun fossil games and activities for kids of all ages! Meet some of Grand Canyon's scientists and ask your questions!

10:00 - 11 :00 am Ask A Scientist!

Yavapai Geology Museum

How do fossils form? What is a trace fossil? Meet some of the Grand Canyon's scientists and ask your questions! (Live event)

1:00 - 2:00 pm Welcome Ceremony

Mather Point Amphitheater

Join Park Rangers for a welcome ceremony, event proclamation, and remarks by Grand Canyon Superintendent and visiting paleontologists.

4:30 - 5:30 pm Facebook Live!

Can't be at Grand Canyon today? No worries! You can join us live for your personal tour of the Fossil Beds via Facebook Live!

7:30 - 8:30 pm Paleontology Evening Program

McKee Amphitheater

Join NPS Paleontology Program Coordinator, Vincent Santucci, for a special evening program about the rich paleontology resources found at Grand Canyon.


Arkansas

  1. Amazeum

Fossil Day Scott Family Amazeum Dig

Amazeum and the University of Arkansas Museum

Fossil Day Scott Family Amazeum Dig in for a day of fossil fun during National Fossil Day at the Scott Family Amazeum. Become a paleontologist as you excavate, create, and get a closer look at trace fossils and replica dinosaur bones with interactive and hands-on activities. Don’t forget to stop by our Community Spotlight with the University of Arkansas Museum from 5pm-7pm to further explore with students who love fossils as much as you do! Wednesday, October 16, 2019 10am-7pm the Scott Family Amazeum

Wednesday, October 16th, 2019

10:00 am- 7:00pm

Scott Family Amazeum

1009 Museum Way

Bentonville, Arkansas 72712

United States

Contact: lschuler@amazeum.org

https://www.amazeum.org/

California

  1. California Oil Museum

Fossil Day

Come celebrate National Fossil Day with us.

Become a Jr Paleontologist (National Park Jr Ranger Program), The Ventura Gem and Mineral Society will be here with demonstrations, activities and more. Fossil digs and paint your own fossil crafts and much more. Hope to see you here!

Check out our website for updated information as it gets closer to the event.

www.caoilmuseum.org

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 2 PM – 5 PM PDT

California Oil Museum

1001 E Main St, Santa Paula, California 93060

  1. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

National Fossil Day

Anza-Borrego Desert Paleontology Society

AMELS OF ANZA-BORREGO The modern Anza-Borrego Desert is a treasure trove of camelid fossils and is quite possibly the greatest for any site in North America. In the Anza-Borrego paleontological record, camels are the second-most common group, second only to horses. But their diversity is greater. There are at least eight different forms of camels known. And a wide array of camel and llama tracks are found in extensive trackways in preserved muddy deposits. Visit us at our Open House on Saturday and Sunday to see our featured camel specimens and tracks. We will also be showing our work using 3D scanning and photogrammetry to create digital images and printable models of fossils. In the Paleontology Laboratory we are preparing our latest Mammoth skull, numerous mammoth bones and a giant land tortoise – all will be on display. Meet at the ABDSP Visitors Center for the short walk over to the Stout Research Center. www.anzaborregopaleo.org for more information

October 19 1:30-4, October 20 9-12 Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Stout Research Center 200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs CA


  1. Western Science Center

The Science of Fossils

Celebrate National Fossil Day at the Western Science Center! Activities to announced soon.

Activities for Science Saturdays are free! There is an additional fee to enter the museum. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday, October 5th, 2019

10:30 am- 1: 00 pm

Western Science Center, 2345 Searl Parkway, Building 2, Hemet, California 92543

https://www.westernsciencecenter.org/


  1. San Diego Museum of Natural History

Fossil Day Celebration

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 here 100 million years ago, when our region was underwater. At 11:30, 12:30, or 1:30, jump on a 30-minute, behind-the-scenes tour of the Paleontology Lab, where museum scientists and volunteers prepare fossils for study. The paleontology staff will introduce you to the tools they use to uncover prehistoric life. Or join a docent tour of Fossil Mysteries, a walk through time in San Diego based on the fossil evidence.

October 16th, 2019

11 AM- 2 PM

San Diego Museum of Natural History; 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

https://www.sdnhm.org/


Colorado

  1. City of Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods Park

5th annual Fossil Day Celebration

Join us to celebrate National Fossil Day at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center on Saturday, October 12th, 2019 from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. The folks at the Garden of the Gods park and the Western Interior Paleontological Society (WIPS) are partnering with several other local organizations to bring you this FREE family event. There will be several fossil, dinosaur and natural history themed activities for all ages with lots of giveaways. Informative lectures, a live animal presentation, and much more.

Bring in your own fossil to get identified!

Presentations schedule:

· 11:00 am, “What 900 Fossil Fish Teeth Can Tell Us”, Steve Miller

· 1:00 pm, “ The Garden of the God’s Dinosaur – Theiophytalia kerri “, Jennifer Heiny

· 2:00 pm, “Ancient Animals”, Nature’s Educators presents with live animals

Partnering organizations include: WIPS, City of Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods Foundation, Friends of Garden of the Gods, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Dinosaur Ridge, Garden Park Paleontological Society, Pebble Pups and Earth Science Scholars, UCCS Geology Club, Nature’s Educators

GARDEN OF THE GODS VISITOR & NATURE CENTER

1805 North 30th Street

Colorado Springs, CO 80904

719-634-6666

www.gardenofgods.com

· date(s): Saturday, October 12th

· time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

· location: Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs, CO 80904

· contact information: Bret Tennis, Operations Administrator, Garden of the Gods, 719-219-0108, bret.tennis@coloradosprings.gov

· website: www.gardenofgods.com



  1. Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center

Hike with a Paleontologist

Join paleontologist, Andrew Smith, on a moderate geology and paleontology hike. Participants will have a chance to see a quarry site and enjoy activities focused on paleontology. Please be advised this event requires participants to hike and stand for the majority of the time.

Date: Saturday, October 19th

Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Location: Cañon City, Colorado

Contact Information: (719) 269-9036

Website: museum.canoncity.org

Florida

  1. Museum of Arts and Sciences

National Fossil Day and After School Program

Bring your fossils to the Museum of identification during our children's fossil Paleo-Lab, a family fun afternoon of sifting, classifying, and identifying real Florida fossils. Learn how to identify bone, teeth, and marine fossils that are millions of years old. Take a tour of the Prehistory of Florida Gallery and view unique specimens that are not currently on display. Learn how to preserve your own fossils and participate in other fun activities.

Admission: Free for members or with paid museum admission.

October 16th, 2019; 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Museum of Arts and Sciences

352 S. Nova Road

Daytona Beach FL 32114

http://www.moas.org



  1. Archaeology For Autism

6th annual Archaeologists for Autism

6th annual event bringing archaeology and paleontology to children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Participants must register before the event.

Date: Saturday, November 16, 2019

Time: 9:30 to 3:00

Location: the Historic Sams House at the Pine Island Conservation Area, 6195 North Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, Brevard County, Florida

Contact Info: Thomas E. Penders, MS, RPA

Ph: 321-307-1314

Email: arch4autism@gmail.com

Website: http://archaeologistsforautism.com

  1. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

National Fossil Day Celebration

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Join us to celebrate National Fossil Day at the Bishop and practice your paleontology skills. Learn about Florida’s fossil history and more with activities for all ages!

Date(s) of Event: Saturday, October 19th, 2019

Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Location: The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34206

Contact Information: Museum Main Number – 941-746-4131

Website: www.bishopscience.org


Idaho

  1. Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Hagerman Fossil Day

Hagerman Valley Foundation

Parade and City Park Celebration

Saturday October 12th, 2019. Parade at 11am, City Park events to follow

Hagerman, Idaho

Contact Information: hagermanvalleynews@gmail.com

Website: https://hagermanvalleyfoundation.wordpress.com/


  1. Idaho Museum of Geology and Mining

Dig into Geology!

Celebrate Earth Science Week and National Fossil Day with a 1pm lecture by LJ Krumenacker on Dinosaur fossils found in Idaho. Special attention will be given to one of Idaho’s most common dinosaur fossils, Oryctodromeus cubicularis. Dr. Krumenacker is an affiliate researcher at Idaho State University Department of Geosciences, and recently played a key role in researching, identifying and naming one of Idaho’s prehistoric creatures. His presentation will be perfect for interested students and adults. The entire afternoon, noon-4:30 pm, includes other events such as fossil rubbing, rocks and minerals, and a scavenger hunt. There’s something of interest for everyone. FREE!

October 5th 12-4:30 pm

2455 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, ID 83712

education@idahomuseum.org or 208-368-9876 www.idahomuseum.org


Illinois

  1. Burpee Museum of Natural History

National Fossil Day

Take a walk through time in the first floor Paleontology Hall, visit the Paleo Lab and watch fossils being prepared. Kids can explore several activity stations throughout the museum and dig up a fossil to keep. Bring in your own fossils to be identified by our experts.

Saturday, Oct. 12 10am-4pm

Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 N Main St Rockford IL 61107

815-965-3433 www.burpee.org


  1. Cosley Zoo

Celebrate National Fossil Day

Lauer Foundation for Paleontology, Science and Education and the Cosley Zoo

Join The Lauer Foundation and Cosley Zoo on Saturday October 19, 2019 to Celebrate National Fossil Day.

See first hand some of Illinois’ famous Mazon Creek fossils, including the state fossil the Tully Monster. Also see Megalodon shark teeth and dinosaur teeth and bones. Learn about fossils and geology. Have a chance to touch real fossils and take home a free fossil. All free with admission to Cosley Zoo. We will be open from 10-4.

Date(s) of Event: Saturday October 19, 2019

Time: 10:00 Am to 4:00 PM

Location: Cosley Zoo 1356 N. Gary Ave Wheaton, IL

Contact Information: Bruce and Rene Lauer Lauer Foundation for Paleontology, Science and Education 630.408.9304,Tami Romejko Education & Guest Experience Manager Cosley Zoo 630.665.5534

Website: Lauerfoundationpse.org, Cosleyzoo.org


Indiana

  1. Indiana Caverns

National Fossil Day

Indiana Caverns and Historic Corydon & Harrison County

Celebrate National Fossil Day with us. We are all about fossils every day and today we celebrate! At 10am, Sarah will share some of the cave's "secrets" in a family friendly program on the courtyard including fossil facts and fossil "touch and tell". The first 20 kids age 2-12 can make a "fossil" you can take home. From 10-4 we will offer a Jr Paleontologist Package for kids 4-12 that includes discovering fossils you can take home with you!

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 10 AM – 10:30 AM

Indiana Caverns

1267 Green Acres Dr SW, Corydon, Indiana 47112

www.indianacaverns.com




  1. Falls of the Ohio State Park

National Fossil Day

Celebrate National Fossil Day at the Falls of the Ohio State Park with more than a half-dozen hands-on activities in the Interpretive Center, a special fossil bed hike, fossil-themed refreshments, and guest speaker, Dr. David Meyer, a renowned crinoid expert on “Thriving Crinoids and What Fossils Tell Us”. (It includes video from a submersible!)

Free admission, made possible by the Falls of the Ohio Foundation and a grant from the Emma Snyder Charitable Trust, Inc.

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 5 PM – 8 PM

Falls of the Ohio State Park

201 W Riverside Dr, Clarksville, Indiana 47129

  1. Holiday Park

Fossil Day at Holiday Park

Indy Parks and Recreation

It’s national fossil day! Explore Indiana fossils with Indiana State Museum presenters. Discover what fossils are and how they are made. Enjoy crafts and a fossil display in the nature center lobby. Take home your very own fossil and resources for exploring at home!

Sunday, Oct. 13

1-5 pm: Fossil crafts & display in lobby

2-3 pm: Indiana State Museum Fossil Presentation

Free! No registration required.

Holiday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260

hollidaypark.org


Iowa

  1. Fontana Park

Fossil Fun Day

October 16 is National Fossil Day! Come see, touch, and learn about Iowa’s fascinating paleontological past. Learn how fossils form and where to find them, and have the chance to make your very own fossil! There may even be time to collect some fossils to take home and start your own collection.

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 5 PM – 6 PM CDT

2465 278th St, Rowley, IA 52329-9771, United States

www.buchanancountyparks.com


Kansas

  1. Sternberg Museum of Natural History

National Fossil Day

Come out and help the Sternberg Museum celebrate National Fossil Day™! This year’s theme is exploring the Ice Age of Kansas. FREE admission all day with special activities from 1 pm to 5 pm. Sunday, October 20th.

Sunday, October 20, 2019 at 1 PM – 5 PM CDT

Sternberg Museum of Natural History

3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, Kansas 67601


  1. El Quartelejo Museum

National Fossil Day

El Quartelejo Museum in Scott City, Kansas will be celebrating National Fossil Day with a week of inspiring activities for all ages. Homeschoolers can join Stephanie Fisher, Program Director, on Wednesday, October 16th at 1:30 PM to explore and learn about local fossil finds. The museum will be hosting at Pop Up Museum several times throughout the school week for local students and teachers to engage with Fossils of Kansas. They will also have special hands on activities available along with amateur fossil enthusiast each afternoon. Saturday, October 19th is the end of the week celebration open to all ages for learning about the local fossil history with many of the activities from the week incorporated into a family friendly event. Come explore with us!

902 W. 5th, Scott City, Kansas 67871

www.elquartelejomuseum.org


Maryland

  1. Chesapeake Children’s Museum

Dinosaur Day

Dinosaur facts and fun for all ages. Go on a bone

hunt. Measure out the size of ancient creatures. Chip away to find

fossilized rocks. Make your own 15-minute fossil! $5 per person, ages 1

and up, includes museum admission.

Date: Sunday, October 13

Time: 2-4 pm

Date: Monday, October 17

Time: 10:30 am

Location: 25 Silopanna Road, Annapolis MD 21403

Contact Information: 410-990-1993, info@theccm.org

Website: www.theccm.org


Massachusetts

  1. Oaks Bluff Public Library

National Fossil Day at the Oak Bluffs Library

arine and Paleobiological Research Institute, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

and

Oak Bluffs Public Library, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557

Celebrate National Fossil Day at the Oak Bluffs Library! The event is FREE to all, and everyone's invited. This event is for all ages. Students and families are especially welcome. This event is a partnership between MPRI, the Oak Bluffs Public Library and the National Park Service. It is made possible by our presenters and public interest and by a grant from the Martha's Vineyard Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. National Fossil Day is for citizenry to share their interest and excitement about fossils. Presenters include professional scientists, educators, and knowledgeable avocational collectors.

This is a drop-in and mingle event. Bring fossils to show to others or to ask about. Or just come and see what others bring. Share knowledge with presenters from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) marine geology and radiocarbon dating labs; MV Museum educators; extraordinary collectors Dr. Henry Kriegstein and Duncan Caldwell; Polly Hill Arboretum; Jessica Utrup and Elissa Martin of the Yale Peabody Museum; paleontologist Jessica Cundiff, zoologist Dr. Joe Martinez, and Erich Dieffenbach of the Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology; senior scientist Scott Smyers of Oxbow Associates, Acton, MA; undersea collectors and diving instructors/contractors Heidi Raihofer and Joe Leonardo; scientific diver Dr. Giorgio Caramanna; marine ecologist Wendy Culbert and Anne Culbert, and others.

Last year our Public brought fossils of beauty, interest and variety, some of which were found on the island; others described things they had found but did not have in hand. The presenters showed the interested public, and especially to youngsters, special pieces from their private collections. They shared their knowledge and passion, and they mingled and conversed and listened and explained. National Fossil Day can attract students to future career paths in earth, atmospheric and planetary sciences, as well as develop avocational interests.

See you at the Library!

Date & Time: Thursday 17 October, 4pm to 7:45pm.
Location: Oak Bluffs Library, 56R School St, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557

Contact information: Hotchkiss@MPRInstitute.org

Oak Bluffs Library: (508) 693-9433 http://www.oakbluffslibrary.org/


  1. Harvard Museum of Natural History

National Fossil Day

Celebrate National Fossil Day with ancient trilobites, sea scorpions, saber-toothed cats, giant ground sloths, and more. Meet Harvard paleontologists and learn about the amazing prehistoric animals on exhibit. Bring your curiosity and questions to this event for all ages!

Wednesday, October 16th, 2019

All day!

Harvard Museum of Natural History, 26 Oxford Street

https://hmnh.harvard.edu/


Michigan

  1. Michigan State University Museum

The MSU Museum celebrates National Fossil Day on Sunday, October 6, 2019, 1-4 p.m.

Family Fossil Fun – FREE Public Event

  • Michigan fossil dig & sift

  • Junior Paleontologist hunt

  • Fossil molds to make and take

  • Behind-the-Scenes Tours

  • Guided tours of the Hall of Evolution

  • “Ask the Expert”: a paleontologist will be on hand to answer your fossil questions and to identify specimens

  • Fossil Poetry Station

  • And much more!

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.

New this year!

• Join us for MSUFCU Dinosaur Dash from 10:00 a.m. – noon before the National Fossil Day celebration!

The fast, flat 5K road race is a fall-time favorite!

The competitive 5K run/walk begins and ends near the MSU Museum. Dashers compete in several different divisions and dinosaur trophies are awarded to overall male and female winners in both the running and walking categories.

https://www.museum.msu.edu/

Missouri

  1. Bollinger County Museum of Natural History

Celebrate National Fossil Day at the Bollinger County Museum of Natural History in Marble Hill, Missouri on Saturday, October 26, 2019 from 12:00 (noon) to 4:00 p.m.

Special presentation “Fossils of Southeast Missouri” at 2 pm - From trilobites to dinosaurs, a look at some of the fossils found in Southeast Missouri and what they tell us about our past. Followed by fossil ID. Bring your fossils, finds, rocks, and artifacts for identification by our experts after the presentation.

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 the fossil scavenger hunt.

All activities are free with your paid museum admission.

Museum Admission: Adults $5 each and 17 years and under $2 each

For more information email: bcmnh@sbcglobal.net or phone: 573-238-1174.

Visit our website at: https://www.bcmnh.org


  1. Missouri Geological Survey

Fossil Day at Missouri Geological Survey

Missouri Geological Survey, a Division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources

Visitors to the Ed Clark Museum of Missouri Geology, 111 Fairgrounds Road, Rolla, will receive a small Crinoid fossil (official state fossil). Also, visit the Missouri State Museum, located on the first floor of the Missouri Capitol where you will see fossils embedded in the building’s limestone walls, floors and stairs. See this article about some of the fossils in limestone of the Capitol and this map showing their locations.

date(s): October 16

time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

location: Missouri Geological Survey, 111 Fairgrounds Road, Rolla, MO

contact information: hylan.beydler@dnr.mo.gov

website: https://dnr.mo.gov/geology


Mississippi

  1. Coldwater Spring

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area and Mississippi Park Connection

Join paleontologist Justin Tweet for walks around Coldwater Spring in search of fossils. Fossils abound along our corridor of the Mississippi River if you know where to look. Join paleontologist Justin Tweet for walks around Coldwater Spring to see what we can find. He'll teach about fossils in the area and how to find them. A ranger will be on hand to swear in Junior Rangers with the official National Park Service Fossil Badge.

This event is free and open to the public.

Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 10 AM – 2 PM CDT

parkconnection.org/coldwater-spring


  1. Dunn-Seiler Museum, Mississippi State University

2019 National Fossil Day Creative Art & Story Competition; 2019 Fossil Extravaganza

Competition: https://www.geosciences.msstate.edu/articles/department-news-museum-news/2019/08/2019-national-fossil-day/ Mississippi K-12 students are encouraged to investigate the role of climate in whether a species survived the Ice Age, or didn't. Pleistocene animals of Mississippi can be represented in 2-D scenes or 3-D models, or students can write a creative story about Pleistocene life in our state.

The deadline for entries is October 11, 2019.

We will also host Fossil Extravaganza in the Dunn-Seiler Museum on National Fossil Day, October 16, 2019, 5:30 - 7:00

date(s) K-12 Art & Story entries are due October 11, 2019. Fossil Extravaganza will be held Wednesday, October 16, 2019

time 5:30 - 7:00 PM CDT

location Dunn-Seiler Museum, Department of Geosciences, Hilbun Hall, 355 Lee Blvd, Mississippi State, MS 39762

contact information Renee Clary, 662.325.3915

website https://www.geosciences.msstate.edu/articles/department-news-museum-news/2019/08/2019-national-fossil-day/


Montana

  1. The Upper Musselshell Museum

Fossil Day Movie Event

October 16th, 2019 is National Fossil Day.

The museum will be showing a Jurassic dinosaur film (PG-13 from 1993). Admission is free. Seating will be limited, so show up early!

Anyone below the age of 14 MUST have a parent or guardian present.

Doors open at 4:50PM, movie will start at 5:30PM.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWBKEmWWL38 (Movie Trailer)


Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 5:30 PM – 8 PM MDT

www.harlowtonmuseum.org


  1. Carter County Museum

FestiFall

During the Carter County Chamber of Commerce annual FestiFall event, visitors to the museum will be able to celebrate National Fossil Day with kids’ paleo games, arts & crafts and dino-themed face painting.

date(s): October 12, 2019

time: 11am - 3pm

location: Carter County Museum

contact information: jhall@cartercountymuseum.org

website: https://cartercountymuseum.org/


  1. Makoshika State Park and Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum

National fossil Day Event

National Fossil Day is October 16th, and to celebrate, we are having a National Fossil Day Event Saturday October 12, 2019 from 11 am- 2 pm. Join Makoshika State Park, Baisch's Dinosaur Digs and Frontier Gateway Museum for this free fossil fun day. Also included, Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum will have a reduced admission for the day; $5/person.

Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 11 AM – 2 PM MDT

Makoshika State Park

1301 Snyder Ave, Glendive, Montana 59330

Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum

History Museum · Glendive, Montana

Exit 215, I-94, Glendive, Montana


  1. Museum of the Rockies

National Fossil Day: Fossil Festival

Join MOR and the Bozeman Public Library in an after-school celebration of Montana’s rich fossil history. Meet MOR’s mascot Rocky Rex, touch real dinosaur bones and other fossils, play games, and make dino crafts. 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.

October 16th, 2019, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Bozeman Public Library, 626 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715

https://museumoftherockies.org/calendar/event/national-fossil-day-fossil-festival/2019-10-16


  1. University of Montana Paleontology Center

National Fossil Day Celebration

Come celebrate National Fossil Day with the University of Montana Paleontology Center on Friday October 18th. Guided tours of the displays and collections will be given by Collections Manager and PBS Eons host Kallie Moore. Three one-hour tours will be available starting at 5:30pm, 6:30pm and 7:30pm on a first-come-first-serve basis, space is limited. Get your FREE tickets at Eventbrite to reserve your spot. Also please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour. This tour will travel from the first floor to the basement, and then to the third floor via elevator. Keep in mind, there will be some walking and prolonged periods of standing. Kids are welcome, but the event is aimed towards grades 4th and up. Tours will begin on the first floor of the C. H. Clapp building on the south side of campus of Beckwith Ave. Parking is available in Lot B to the East of the building. Enter through the breezeway and look for signs.

October 18, 2019 time: 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm

University of Montana - C. H. Clapp Building

contact information: kallie.moore@mso.umt.edu or (406) 243-2073

website: http://hs.umt.edu/paleo/fossil-day.php


Nebraska

  1. University of Nebraska State Museum

Fossil Night

University of Nebraska State Museum-Morrill Hall

Engage in more than a dozen hands-on fossil activities with Museum researchers, view our fossil exhibits after-hours, and trick or treat with the kids in a fun environment. Costumes encouraged but not required.

date(s) October 24, 2019

time 5-8 p.m. CST

location University of Nebraska State Museum-Morrill Hall, 645 North 14th St., Lincoln, NE 68588

contact information Caroline Clements, 402-472-3779, cclements8@unl.edu

website museum.unl.edu

Nevada

  1. Ice Age Fossils State Park

National Fossil Day Celebration

Ice Age Fossils State Park and Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument are hosting our first joint National Fossil Day Celebration. Join us for an evening of fossil fun as we learn about the Shasta ground sloth, which was selected as this year’s extinct animal. Fossils of the Shasta ground sloth and other extinct large mammals can be found in Tule Springs. Activities will include: short guided hikes, mock paleontological digs, sloth themed activities and more!

The event will be set up in the Ice Age Fossils State Park parking lot. The park does not currently have restrooms or drinking fountains available, so please come prepared.

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM PDT

Ice Age Fossils State Park

8660 N. Decatur Blvd., Las Vegas, Nevada 89085

parks.nv.gov/parks/ice-age-fossils

  1. Las Vegas Natural History Museum

National Fossil Day Art Contest Awards and Display for Clark County Students

Protectors of Tule Springs

Event Description: Our National Fossil Day Art Contest is in its 5th year. The theme this year is Flora, Fauna, and Fossils of Southern Nevada. The Clark County School District Students are asked to submit artwork in 5 different categories; K-2, 3-5th, Middle School, High School and Digital Art. Our sponsors donate prize money for the winning teachers and students and free admission to the Las Vegas Natural History Museum (where the awards are presented). All students participating have their artwork displayed at the Museum until November 1st. Partners from the Las Vegas Science Festival, the National Park Service, Clark County School District, and NV Energy will be on hand to pass out the prizes.

Date(s) of Event: Saturday October 12th

Time: 10-1

Location: Las Vegas Natural History Museum 900 N. Las Vegas Blvd. Las Vegas NV.

Contact Information: Jill DeStefano jilld@protectorsoftulesprings.org

Website: www.protectorsoftulesprings.org


New Jersey

  1. Big Brook Preserve

This is an interactive fossil hunt for all ages. We will wade the shallow waters of Big Brook and sift through the substrate while looking for fossils that include shark teeth! The shark teeth are quite plentiful. We will learn fossil identification. Please wear water shoes or old sneakers to wade in. Also bring a small garden shovel and colander. There are also plans online to make your own fossil sifters. The fee is $10 per child. No charge for adults. 20 people max allowed on this trip including chaperones per my permit.

Please send payment as a friend though paypal to jjpbroad@comcast,net Please include your email and phone number in case of cancellations.

https://www.crazydiymom.com/sifter.html

Wednesday, October 16th, 2019

1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Big Brook Preserve, Hillsdale Rd, Colts Neck, New Jersey 07722

  1. Rutgers Geology Museum

Dinosaurs and Fossils Late Night at the Museum

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 2, 2019

4:00 to 8:00 pm

Rutgers Geology Museum, 85 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

Contact: geologymuseum@sas.rutgers.edu

https://geologymuseum.rutgers.edu/museum-events/late-nights


New Mexico

  1. Zuhl Museum

Fossil Day at the Zuhl Museum

National Fossil Day is officially October 16th but come celebrate early at the Zuhl Museum Saturday October 12th! Paint your own fossil replica to take home! (One per visitor while supplies last.) Then visit all the incredible fossils in the Zuhl Museum from Petrified Trees to a full Baby Mammoth skeleton!

Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 12 PM – 4 PM MDT

Zuhl Museum: Home of the Zuhl Collection

775 College Dr, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003

zuhlmuseum.nmsu.edu


46 and 47. New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

National Fossil Day/Earth Science Week

Tables will be set up in the atrium and will cover subjects such as fossils, prep work, earth quakes, and mineralogy.

Wednesday, October 16th 10-12pm

1801 Mountain road NW Albuquerque, NM 87104

Kristin Hsueh Kristin.Hsueh@state.nm.us http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/


Fossil Fiesta!

September 21, 9am - 2pm

Farmington Library

6 Monteith Drive, Farmington, NM

https://farmingtonlibraries.org/

October 6th, 9am-4pm

New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science

http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science

1801 Mountain Road NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87104

• Hands-on activities exploring fossils and prehistoric life

• Enjoy Smithsonian developed activities with fossils to understand how “we know about the past.”

• Meet a paleontologist!

• Virtual reality experience!

48. Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science

National Fossil Day

Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science, Bureau of Land Management, New Mexico State University

Celebrate National Fossil Day with the Museum of Nature & Science, Bureau of Land Management, and New Mexico State University. Unearth fossil facts with hands-on activities and view real fossils from Las Cruces and beyond.

Saturday, October 12, 2019

9am – 12pm

Las Cruces Museum of Nature & Science

411 N. Main Street

Las Cruces, New Mexico 88001

(575) 522-3120

www.museums.las-cruces.org


49. Mesalands Community College Dinosaur Museum

National Fossil Day Festival

Free Admission and Exhibit Hall tours to the public as well as Tent Stores in the parking lot with Dinosaur Books, Minerals, Tee Shirts and Toys for early Christmas shopping. Food Trucks and Snow Cones available from 11:00am to 2:00pm. Fossil prep demonstrations ongoing throughout the day. October 19, 2019 11am to 4pm

Mesalands Community College's Dinosaur Museum 222 E. Laughlin Ave., Tucumcari, NM 88401

Loni Monahan, Museum Director 575-461-3466 x253

www.mesalands.edu/community/dinosaur-museum


New York

50. American Museum of Natural History

School Group Drop In Day: Fossils

In celebration of National Fossil Day, this special event will help students understand how studying fossils teach us about the history of life, past climates, and ancient landscapes. Activities explore fossil formation, extinction theories, fossil diversity and much more.

Date: October 16th, 2019

Location: American Museum of Natural History, 4th Floor Fossil Halls

Contact: teachingvolunteers@amnh.org or jdavid1@amnh.org

Website: https://www.amnh.org/plan-your-visit/field-trips/programs/drop-in-events

North Carolina

51. Imagination Station Science & History Museum

National Fossil Day Celebration!

Dive into a time millions of years ago when North Carolina was under water. Explore several fossil specimens that have been already been discovered here in N.C. Dig in the old sea bed to discover fossils, and micro fossils you can take home. Join us for a variety of activities focusing on fossils included with general admission.

Saturday, October 19th

9am-5pm

Imagination Station Science and History Museum

224 Nash Street SE, Wilson, NC 27893

252-291-5113 or awatson@imaginescience.org

https://scienceandhistory.org/


52. Aurora Fossil Museum

The Aurora Fossil Museum and the North Carolina Fossil Club

National Fossil Day Celebration!

Join us for a variety of free activities focusing on fossils!

Children’s activities, educational displays, family fun, dig for your own fossils and cake!

Date(s) of Event: Saturday, October 19, 2019

Time: 10 am to 4 pm

Location: Aurora Fossil Museum 400 Main Street Aurora, NC 27806

Contact Information: events@aurorafossilmuseum.org 252-322-4238

Website: aurorafossilmuseum.org,www.northcarolinafossilclub.org


North Dakota

53. Dakota Science Center & Grand Forks Public Library

Geosciences Day

Experience hands-on STEM activities for families!

Date(s) of Event: not set yet but a Sunday in Oct

Time: 2-3 pm

Location: Grand Forks Public Library; 2110 Library Cir, Grand Forks, ND 58201

Contact Information: Dakota.Science@gmail.com

Website: www.dakota-science.org & http://gflibrary.com/

Ohio

54. 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 Covered Bridge, 10 - 11:30am.

Want to learn more about fossils? Come drop by our "Fossil Drop-in" event at Hunt House (2054 Bolanz Road).

https://www.facebook.com/events/1252049448290154/

Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 10 AM – 11:30 AM

www.nps.gov/cuva


55. The Ohio State University

National Fossil Day

Hunt for dinosaur eggs.

Thrill to a dino-themed storytime.

See our complete dinosaur skeleton—now celebrating its first anniversary in the museum.

Take a tour of the Orton Geological Museum.

It all happens when you join us for National Fossil Day! It’s free and open to the public.

The fun kicks off at 6 p.m. with games, activities, and tours of the museum throughout the night. You’ll also be among the first to see the new gift shop items. Our National Fossil Day event also serves as a celebration of the next chapter for the museum, with a series of new initiatives and programs slated to launch in the upcoming year under our new director, Dr. Loren Babcock

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.

National Fossil Day Schedule

  • Museum Open 8:00 am-8:00pm

  • Fossil ID Booth 3:00-8:00pm

  • 6:00pm-8:00pm Inside Carnival-style activities and games

  • Refreshments

  • Outside Activities

    • Sandbox Fossil Dig

    • 6:30 p.m. Dinosaur Story Time

    • 7:00 p.m. Dino Egg Search

Questions? Please feel free to contact hunt.808@osu.edu

October 16th, 2019

https://earthsciences.osu.edu/events/national-fossil-day?fbclid=IwAR1qLMLlq4m8tAwCiGu4-cOdTSgBSFkSjSADTiE0AcfAWXccGPVaAL3d80E


56. Cincinnati Museum Center

Fossil Fest: In Celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Museum of Natural History and Science

Cincinnati Museum Center

Did you know Cincinnati Museum of Natural History and Science is celebrating a birthday this year? It’s a big one too! 2019 will mark the 200th anniversary of the museum. You know what else is big? And small? Fossils! So what better way to celebrate such a monumental birthday! Join CMC on Saturday October 19th for a festive day of fossils.

Saturday October 19th, 2019

10am to 4pm

Cincinnati Museum Center (1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203)

Emily Logue-Rose (elogue-rose@cincymuseum.org or 513-287-7000 ext: 7305)

https://www.cincymuseum.org/


Oregon

57. University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History

National Fossil Day!

What better way to celebrate National Fossil Day than by digging into Oregon's amazing fossil record? Join us for a fossil-focused Walk & Talk through our Explore Oregon exhibit. Talks begin at noon, 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 p.m. and are included with regular admission. Free for MNCH members and UO ID card holders. Show your Oregon Trail or other EBT card for an admission discount. Not a member yet? Purchase or renew your membership on National Fossil Day and get 20 percent off!

Wednesday, October 16th, 2019

11:00 am to 5:00 pm

https://mnch.uoregon.edu/


Pennsylvania

58. The State Museum of Pennsylvania

National Fossil Day

Join us in celebrating National Fossil Day™ in the Paleontology Gallery. We will be taking a look at the Pleistocene and 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.

Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM


www.statemuseumpa.org



59. Slippery Rock University

National Fossil Day Celebration on Campus

Department of Parks and Resource Management and Geology Department

Fossil Casts, Junior Paleontology activities, and presentations.

Tuesday, October 15th, 201912- 1pm on campus.


60. The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

National Fossil Day Celebration

This event will have fossil-themed shows, carts, and staff interactives in the Dinosaur Hall.

Wednesday, October 16th, 2019

10:00 am - 4:00 pm

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103

contact information: Mary Bailey, mvb45@drexel.edu

website address: ansp.org

South Carolina

61 and 62. Mace Brown Museum of Natural History at the College of Charleston

Event 1:

event title: Fossil Field Trip on Folly Beach

event description: Finding fossils along Folly Beach

date(s): Friday, October 18th, 2019

time: 4:00pm-7:00pm

location: Folly Beach

contact information: museum@cofc.edu

website: http://geology.cofc.edu/natural-history-museum/

Event 2:

event title: National Fossil Day with the Mace Brown Museum of Natural History

event description: Museum visits and outreach/touch fossils

date(s): Saturday, October 19th, 2019

time: 11:00am – 3:00pm

location: Mace Brown Museum of Natural History (202 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC, 29424)

contact information: museum@cofc.edu

website: http://geology.cofc.edu/natural-history-museum/


Tennessee

63. Gray Fossil Site

National Fossil Day 2019

National Fossil Day is an event that highlights the scientific and educational value of paleontology and the importance of preserving fossils for future generations. The day will include a variety of activities and demonstrations for all ages. Visitors will be able to take a tour of the fossil site, see amazing Appalachian fossils up close, and learn about how paleontologists use the latest technologies to research and preserve fossils. Scientists, students, and volunteers will be on hand to showcase the incredible work of paleontology!

Activities will be on-going from 10am to 3pm. All National Fossil Day activities are free to the public. All activities are also included with admission to the Hands On! Discovery Center: $10 for adults and children 4 and older.

Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 10 AM – 3 PM

Gray Fossil Site

1212 Suncrest Dr, Gray, Tennessee 37615


64. Discovery Park of America

National Fossil Day at Discovery Park of America

As part of our week long celebration of Earth Science week, we will be hosting a REAL FOSSIL DIG with matrix from the Coon Creek Science Center. We will also have paleontologists from the University of Tennessee at Martin on hand to identify any collected fossils. This event is free with admission. We will also have activities about the Tennessee state fossil!

October 16 is our National Fossil Day celebration, but we will have Earth Science activities all week.

1:00pm-5:pm on October 16th

830 Everett Blvd, Union City, TN 38261

contact information Amanda Mayo (amakmayo@ut.utm.edu) or info@discoveryparkofamerica.com

website https://discoveryparkofamerica.com/


65. Alex’s Rock Shop

National Fossil Day

The Shops at Main & McGrew and Alex’s Rock Shop

Our 3rd Annual National Fossil Day Celebration will be taking place on Saturday, October 12th, 2019. This year will be bigger and better than ever! This is a celebration of education and an opportunity to discover and learn all about fossils, rocks, and more.

Be sure to check back for more information and for the full schedule of events for the day.

Saturday, October 12th, 2019

1:00 pm- 6:00 pm

Alex’s Rock Shop, 100 S Main St, Shelbyville, Tennessee 37160

http://www.alexsrockshop.com/


66. The University of Tennessee McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture

Can You Dig It?

The McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville will host Can You Dig It? —a free and family-friendly event with activities about archaeology and paleontology. The event will be held on Sunday, October 6 from 1:30 to 5:00 p.m. at the museum.

University of Tennessee archaeologists, paleontologists, and geologists and their graduate students will host displays about their projects locally and around the world. They will be on hand to talk with visitors about their work and offer hands-on activities demonstrating their research. Visitors can also bring artifacts, rocks, and fossils to the museum for identification by experts.

October 6th, 2019

1:30 pm to 5:30 pm

1327 Circle Park Drive

Knoxville, Tennessee 37996-3200

Contact Information: Callie Bennett (croller2@utk.edu)

https://mcclungmuseum.utk.edu/

Texas

67. Waco Mammoth National Monument

National Park Service and Waco Parks and Recreation

Fall Fossil Festival 2019 is coming!

Join us for a full day of family and fossil FUN as we celebrate National Fossil Day.

Special guests include:

Texas Camel Corps

Waco Mammoth Foundation

Mayborn Museum

Cameron Park Zoo

City of Waco Wetlands

City of Waco Recycling

Art Center of Waco

Waco Gem and Mineral Society

Fuzzy Friends

Central Texas Astronomical Society

Dallas Paleontological Society

Pokey-O's Ice Cream Truck

Jasper's BBQ Truck

and more

Paint a free pumpkin

Pet a camel

Dig in our mock dig pit

*Talk to rangers and see our world-famous in-situ fossil bed* (in an air-conditioned building!) *This activity requires a $5 wristband*

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Park is open 9am-5pm

Festival hours are 10am-3pm

Waco Mammoth National Monument

6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr

Waco, TX 76708

254-750-7946


68. Valley of the Caddo Museum & Cultural Center Inc

Bring your family and join us as we celebrate National Fossil Day!

~ Find and keep REAL fossils in our Ancient Oceans Program.

~ We will have fossil displays and a fossil expert on site! Come

meet Mac Glaess DVM .

~ Earn your National Park Service Paleontology Junior Ranger

Badge

~ Make and take fossil crafts

~ Refreshments will be served

We hope to see you there!

* THERE IS NO CHARGE FOR THIS EVENT.*

Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 1 PM – 3 PM CDT


Valley of the Caddo Museum & Cultural Center Inc.

1115 Bonham St, Paris, Texas 75460

vocmuseumparis.org


69. Learning Express Toys of Frisco

National Fossil Day - Excavation Play Date

Join us on National Fossil Day to excavate your own dinosaur with Dig It Up! kit! What kind of dinosaur will YOU dig up? This is a free event and is recommended for kids 4+. Reservations Required. Seating for 8. Please call to reserve your seat, 469-579-4975

Sunday, October 13, 2019 at 1 PM – 2 PM CDT

Learning Express Toys of Frisco

3245 Main Street, Suite 273, Frisco, Texas 75034

learningexpress.com/stores/frisco-tx


70. Texas Memorial Museum

Join the Texas Memorial Museum in this nationwide event promoting awareness of fossils and the science of paleontology.

Free activities with paid admission:

  • Fossil Identifications 9 am to 12 pm & 1:30 pm to 4:45 pm. Meet a paleontologist to learn about your personal fossil finds and the fabulous fossil record of Texas. (1st floor, Paleo Lab)

  • Pop-up Prehistoric Art Studio 10 am to 12 pm (or while art supplies last). Explore color and shape in prehistoric creatures. Activity suitable for all ages. (2nd floor, Great Hall)

Fossil Dig Pit 10 am to 12 pm (weather permitting). Children 7 years and younger will enjoy making their own fossil discoveries. (Outdoor classroom)

If you need any accommodation to participate in the event, please contact TMM Education at least five days before the event.

Wednesday October 16th, 2019

9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Texas Memorial Museum, 2400 Trinity Street, Austin, Texas 78712-1621

Contact Information: tmminfo@austin.utexas.edu

Website: www.texasmemorialmuseum.org


71. Dallas Paleontological Society

https://www.dallaspaleo.org/

Multiple events and localities:

October 12th, 2019

72. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

National Fossil Day Celebration

Come explore the exciting world of fossils with members of the Dallas Paleontological Society. Learn about ancient Texas, see casts of Ice Age animals, and become a member of the "PIT" Crew (Paleontologists in Training). You can even bring in your own fossils and have them identified. Get a fossil to take home (while supplies last). This event is included in general admission and free for Heard Museum members.

Time: 1:30-4 p.m.

Address:Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney, TX 75069

Contact Information: info@heardmuseum.org, 972-562-5566

https://www.heardmuseum.org/

October 19th, 2019

73. Ladonia Fossil Park

National Fossil Day Celebration & Ladonia TX Science Week

Ladonia Fossil Park is located two miles north of Ladonia on Highway 34. Ladonia is located about 75 miles northeast of Dallas, midway between Greenville and Paris and is accessible by highway 34 and highway 50. For more information on the event or directions, call 903-456-2687

http://www.cocladonia.org/ladonia-fossil-park.html

74. Ladonia Fossil Park

National Fossil Day at North Sulphur River

Event Description: Fannindel High School, Ladonia, Texas: NSR Fossil Show, subject matter expert speakers to include Nathan Van Vranken on “Cretaceous Coastline of Texas”. Exploration of North Sulphur River Fossil beds.

Date of Event: Saturday, October 19, 2019

Time: Registration 8:00-10am Fossil Show: 8:30 am - 12 noon 10 am: Vertebrate Paleontologist Nathan Van Vranken, Dallas & Tarrant County Community Colleges; Mick Tune, member of Dallas Paleontological Society; P K Kirkpatrick and Doug Franklin, members of Bois d’ Arc Chapter of Texas Master Naturalist. 12 noon: arrive at Ladonia Fossil Park for NSR Exploration.

For More Information Call 903-456-2687

Website: http://www.cocladonia.org/ladonia-fossil-park.html

75. Mineral Wells Fossil Park

The Mineral Wells Chamber of Commerce has announced their Crazy Fossil Dig for this year. It will be Saturday, October 19, at the Mineral Wells Fossil Park. No registration is required and it is open to the public.

The park address is 2375 Indian Creek Road, Mineral Wells, Texas.

Fossil Park is located northwest of Mineral Wells, Texas. From Mineral Wells, head west on Highway 180. Turn north on Indian Creek Road and drive approximately 2 miles to the Mineral Wells Fossil Park entrance.

https://www.mineralwellsfossilpark.com/news.html


UTAH


76. UDIG fossil quarry

TEACHER TRILOBITE DAY (UTAH K-12 TEACHERS)

EARTH SCIENCE EDUCATION

DISCOUNTED COST to hunt fossils west of Delta UT. Optional workshop.

October 12, 2019

time ALL DAY; Workshop at 1 PM

location: UDIG fossil quarry, Juab County Utah

contact information: GenevieveAtwood@comcast.net

website: www.earthscienceeducation.org

77. St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site

Fossil Prep Lab Tours at the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site

Come explore our fossil preparation lab! See what tools we use, how we prepare fossils for display, and what our volunteers are currently working on. Coloring pages will be available in the classroom.

date(s): October 16, 2019

time: 10 AM - 3 PM

location: St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site, 2180 E Riverside Dr. St. George, UT 84790

contact information: Diana Azevedo, 435-574-3466x1, tracksofdinos@gmail.com

website: https://utahdinosaurs.com/events/fossil-preparation-lab-tours/

78. Discovery Gateway Children's Museum

Dig up the past at Discovery Gateway! We’ll be celebrating National Fossil Day with special programming throughout the day! Make ‘Monster Fossils’ in our Creative Kids class and participate in a dinosaur dig, fossil imprint activity, and shell exploration! Dress like a paleontologist and get prepared to learn about the difference between trace and body fossils!

Included with Admission or FREE for Members

Oct 16, 2019 at 10:30 am - 04:30 pm (Wed)

Discovery Gateway Children's Museum

444 W 100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

https://www.discoverygateway.org/


79. Great Basin Museum

The Fossils of Millard County

Great Basin Museum

Come join us to learn about the interesting Fossils of the West Central Utah region. During the day we will host school children and present learning activities. We will show and explain our collection of fossils and the associated natural history of our region. We will give directions to local invertebrate fossil collection areas in our west desert area.

Great Basin Museum has been recognized as having the best fossil and invertebrate collection in the State of Utah and also one of the best in the entire country. The display includes: Cambrian and Ordovician fossils which are found in our desert area. Rare Saber Tooth Cat skull. Terataspis Grandis – largest know trilobite. Allosauras dinosaur claw – new to the museum. An expert will be at the museum on Wed. Oct 16 to present interesting facts about the fossils and the world at the time they were living. He will also answer any questions about fossils for our guests. FREE DEVILS TOENAIL FOSSIL given to every visitor! Great activity for family, students and fossil enthusiasts!

DATE OF EVENT: October 16, 2019

TIME: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

LOCATION: Great Basin Museum, 45 West Main Street, Delta, Utah

CONTACT INFORMATION:

435-864-5013 - e-mail gbm@frontiernet.net - web site - www.greatbasinmuseum.com


Virginia

80. Museum of Geosciences at Virginia Tech

Fossil Open House and Unwrapping

Museum of Geosciences at Virginia Tech and the Paleobiology Group at Virginia Tech

The public is invited to visit our labs, pick microfossils, help curate specimens, learn about the latest research, and talk directly with the researchers (undergraduate, graduate, faculty)

date(s): October 16th, 2019

time: 7 pm

location: Derring Hall in Museum of Geosciences and various locations within Derring Hall

contact information: Sterling Nesbitt (sjn2104@vt.edu), Michelle Stocker (Stockerm@vt.edu), and Llyn Sharpe (llyn@vt.edu)

website: https://geos.vt.edu/museum-of-geosciences.html

Wyoming

81. Tate Geological Museum at Casper College

National Fossil Day Open House

Family oriented open house with tours, treats, games, crafts, and free fossil fish bits for the first 75 children.

October 12th, 2019

10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Tate Geological Museum at Casper College, 125 College Dr, Casper, WY 82601

Contact Information: 307-268-2447

Website: https://www.caspercollege.edu/tate-geological-museum


 

Submit an Event to Add to this List

To add your organization's event to the events list, please contact us with the following information:

  1. event title
  2. name of sponsoring organization
  3. event description
  4. date(s)
  5. time
  6. location
  7. contact information
  8. website

Organizations are encouraged to hold events to celebrate National Fossil Day on the scheduled NFD date, the weekend before or after, or another date that works for them.


Last updated: October 14, 2020