Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Bug Theater

After last year’s hot dry summer, will the promise of a wetter monsoon bring more bugs to desert darkness? Only one way to find out! Ranger Shaun’s raising the White Curtain once again to summon the six-legged stars back to the stage! With new and improved lighting and the promise of more rain this season maybe we’ll see something new this year!

This program will involve sitting in the dark near a light directed at a sheet to observe and identify insects. It is generally popular with children who are comfortable with bugs and the dark. Generally, from around ages 8 and up. You may encounter spiders, scorpions, toads, moths, etc. Audience participation is encouraged and sometimes involuntary. Please no squashing. The bugs are, after all, volunteers.

Please bring a flashlight, water bottle, sense of curiosity and wonder, blacklight if available.

Please DO NOT bring pets, insect repellent or bug sprays, people or children you know or believe to be afraid of INSECTS, SPIDERS, SCORPIONS, or THE DARK.

MEETING LOCATION: Amphitheater behind the Nature Center

Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nYsYA9JVHwCpqoe26

Limit 15 participants. To register, please call the Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 8 with your name, phone number and number of people attending. If you find you cannot attend a program after you have registered, please call the Nature Center ASAP so we may contact those on the waiting list. Registration for this program will close on 7/9/2025.

PLEASE NOTE: Outdoor summer programs may be canceled on short notice due to severe weather, including extreme heat events. The Maricopa County Parks website (www.maricopa.gov/parks) is the most accurate resource for verifying the program’s current status. Please check the program listing online or call the Nature Center before coming to the park.