The Schiele Museum roars through February with the return of its 18th annual Fossil Fair! Sponsored by Piedmont Lithium, visitors can experience vendors, dino bingo, planetarium shows, programs, fossil digs and, of course, fossils. There’s something for the entire family at Fossil Fair on Feb. 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“Fossil Fair is one of our most popular annual events,” said Tony Pasour, head of interpretation. “Fossils tell us stories about the prehistoric past and the living things that we didn’t get a chance to see. Everything from primitive algae to a T. rex.”
The Fossil Fair will host over 20 vendors with interesting specimens to explore. Visitors can delve into rocks, minerals, fossils and skeletons while learning from the experts who collect them.
“Guests can talk with experts and even purchase some specimens to add to their personal collections,” said MC Douglas, the museum’s outreach and volunteer manager. “This year, we are featuring a new presentation on fossil diving in the Carolinas.” Other programs, such as Living Fossils and Fossil Record will leap into the Mesozoic Era.
Dinosaurs aren’t the only animals featured at this year’s Fossil Fair. The museum is holding a Jurassic Bark contest for residents and their furry best friends. Museum visitors will get to see the finalists and vote for their favorite dino-dog. Winners receive special prizes for their four-legged pals. “We are excited to see the creative ‘doggosaur’ costumes people come up with,” Douglas said.
Along with Jurassic Bark, guests can identify their own treasures to take home with in mini fossil digs and gemstone mining, weather permitting. “Our fossil hunt activities are always a hit because visitors can keep all the tiny fossils that they find,” Pasour said. “We are glad to partner with Piedmont Lithium to make these fossil digs happen for our guests.”
“Fossil Fair is an event that nearly everyone can find something interesting to learn about and enjoy,” Pasour said. “Travel back thousands of years ago and explore at Fossil Fair!”
For more information, please visit The Schiele Museum’s Fossil Fair webpage.
