The Great Insect Fair Returns to Ag Arena

The Penn State Department of Entomology’s annual Great Insect Fair returns to Snider Ag Arena on Saturday, giving visitors a chance to see lots of different insects up close, learn about pollinators, enjoy activities… and eat some bugs.

The fair, which takes place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., will feature an ‘Insect Deli,’ where attendees can try out treats like chocolate chirpies, cricket cookies and super-insect trail mix. Though it may sound odd, the practice of eating insects, or ‘entomophagy,’ is common many parts of the world and could have significant nutritional benefits, says Alyssa Chilton, staff sensory scientist in Penn State’s Department of Food Science.

‘Many cultures around the world consume insects as part of their diets and find them a delicious and healthy staple,’ Chilton said in a release. ‘They are a great source of protein and other nutrients, and they can be a quite sustainable food source. Many people believe insects may be one option to help solve the problem of feeding an ever-increasing population.’

Aside from the bugs you can eat, there will be unusual insects like giant hissing cockroaches and praying mantises to see, and sometimes held. Among the most popular attractions every year are the butterfly tents. 

‘Our aim is to get 100 or more adult monarchs for the fair, and we are trying to slow down the development of some so we have chrysalises and maybe even caterpillars to show to people, too,’ said Asher Jones, graduate student in entomology.

The caterpillars are fed milkweed twice a day, and as adults they will be fed Gatorade. With monarch butterfly populations in decline, Jones said it is important that the public understands what can be done to conserve them.

‘Because the monarch is such a beautiful and iconic North American insect, it is a great flagship species for raising awareness about conservation.’

The fair also will include cockroach races, honey tasting, pesticide education games, bee observation hives, live exhibits, bug collections, arts and crafts, face painting and more.

Admission is free but donations are welcomed.