Monarchs in the Park returns to Norman on October 2 with plant sales, pollinator educational booths, family crafts and more. Butterfly and pollinator costumes are encouraged at the admission-free event that will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at Andrews Park, 201 W. Daws, and Norman Public Library Central, 103 W. Acres.

 

“We are so excited to  announce that Bicycling with Butterflies author Sara Dykman, who bicycled over 10,000 miles alongside migrating monarchs, will joins us to talk about her experience this year,” said Michele Loudenback, Environment and Sustainability Manager for the City of Norman.

 

Dykman, founder of beyondabook.org, works in amphibian research and as an outdoor educator. Her 2017 roundtrip journey sparked her notoriety and served as a call to action for all people to better protect the environment and creatures within it. During the festival, Dykman will be available to visit with festival goers following a “Butterfly Parade” at 3 p.m. in the library.

 

“We are looking forward to another fun-filled opportunity to learn more about how pollinators power our planet,” Loudenback said.

 

Attendees will be able to visit vendor booths set up toward the west side of Andrews Park, and games and educational stations will also be available for all ages. Applications for vendors, to include food trucks, will be accepted through September 22. Email Michele.Loudenback@normanok.gov for more information.

 

This event is made possible through coordination with the University of Oklahoma Honors College and other community partners.

 

###