Nature Speaks is a new conversation series at Monarch Fest inviting curious minds of all ages, not just the little ones, to learn more about the natural world we share.
We’ve gathered our friends, including nature experts, artists, authors, and community leaders who are studying, creating, and advocating for our environment, and asked them to share a little bit about their work with us.
Through short, interactive conversations facilitated by nature connector Jeanette Honerman, each session offers a chance to learn what’s happening right now in our local ecosystems, ask questions, connect with others, and leave inspired.
join US SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2026 FOR A FREE, FAMILY FRIENDLY DAY OF HANDS-ON & EXPERIENTIAL NATURE EDUCATION!
Festival Day Activations
New! bizzee bumblebee
Become a native bumblebee and journey through its life cycle from overwintering to thriving colon in this interactive, adventure. Discover the challenges bees face, the importance of native flowers, and how pollinators keep our ecosystems healthy.
Monarch Butterfly tagging
Become a citizen scientist and participate in an international project in partnership with Monarch Watch by placing a (harmless!) tag on a migrating monarch butterfly wing.
New! Little birder I spy
Participants learn the basics of birding by using binoculars and observation skills to search for common Texas birds hidden throughout the activity area. This hands-on adventure encourages curiosity, habitat awareness, and an appreciation for local bird species.
People as pollinators experiment
Pick your favorite pollinator and transform yourself through face-painting and costume. Metamorphosize to experience a day in the life as your favorite butterfly, bee, bat, or bird!
Fan Favorite! Monarch Migration Obstacle course
Become a monarch and fly the multi-generational Spring migration to Canada by eating milkweed and metamorphosizing 3 times. Then, overcome obstacles like hail, cars and taggers as you make your way back to Mexico for the Fall Migration.
education partner Booths
Meet the over 50 environmental leaders and stewards of our community through educational hands-on activities.
pollinator procession
Join us as we dance, flutter, and buzz through the festival in true pollinator style.
pollinator picnic
Pollinator Picnic is a hands-on game where families step into the role of native pollinators and discover which Texas flowers they love most. Explore the unique connections between birds, bats, bees, butterflies, and the blooms they help thrive.
Critter Collective
Follow your curiosity and engage with Litter Bugs, the Pollinator Posse, and more to learn about how you can actively make positive change in our ecosystem
Plants, trees, & more!
Adopt a tree, plant a plant, and get your hands dirty as you learn how to do your part to take care of our ecosystem.
pollinator prophet
Step into the Pollinator Prophet's Den to discover your inner pollinator! Through a fun and imaginative card reading, learn about the unique personalities and ecological roles of Texas pollinators while exploring the diversity of species that support our ecosystems.
Meet the over 40 passionate environmental stewards from our San Antonio community that led attendees through engaging, hands-on activities that connected them with the wonders of nature. Whether they were learning about local pollinators, sustainable practices, migratory patterns, or the unique ecosystems of our region, there was something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
Meet the team of Educators, Creators, & Nature Experts
ashley bird
Festival Director & Creative Direction
Mallory Lancaster
Assistant Director
maura bobbitt
Education Director
sharon Gutierrez
PR & Marketing
2026 Sponsors
Winkler family foundation
ANNE AND CHUCK PARRISH
Be Part of FESTIVAL DAY!
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VOLUNTEER
Calling all helping hands! Get hands-on with nature and help bring the magic of the festival to life.
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SPONSOR
Help us keep the Monarch Butterfly & Pollinator Festival FREE and accessible for over 10,000 annual attendees. Sponsorship opportunities include festival-day booths, community visibility, and marketing opportunities.
1 OUT OF EVERY 3 BITES OF FOOD is made possible by pollinators.
Join us this September to celebrate these essential animals and the critical role they play in our food system. Enjoy locally and sustainably sourced dishes and drinks at Liberty Bar, Best Quality Daughter, Pharm Table, Southwest Elixirs, Howdy Child, Mezquite, and more by looking for the Migratory Month Icon !
Support Project Bloom
Help us ensure the festival remains FREE & accessible to everyone in our community.
