By Blake Jackson
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will partner with the Weldon Spring Site Interpretive Center and several conservation organizations to host Pollinator Palooza on September 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in St. Charles, Missouri.
The free family-friendly event will celebrate the important role pollinators play in supporting ecosystems, agriculture, and food production.
Pollinators such as butterflies, bees, moths, and other insects are essential for the reproduction of many flowering plants. More than 75% of flowering plants rely on pollinators, and they contribute to the production of many foods people consume every day.
The festival aims to raise awareness about declining pollinator populations and provide practical information on how individuals can help protect them. Visitors will have opportunities to learn about pollinator conservation through interactive exhibits, educational demonstrations, and hands-on activities designed for all ages.
Attendees can enjoy children's crafts, games, native plant displays, educational exhibits, and food vendors throughout the day. Missouri-based vendors will offer native plants, bird feeders, nesting boxes, local produce, and handmade products.
Experts from the Missouri Botanical Garden, University of Missouri Extension, and the Saint Louis Zoo will also present educational talks on pollinator health and habitat conservation.
Guests will be able to purchase native plants and receive guidance on creating pollinator-friendly landscapes at home. In addition, visitors can explore the site's 150-acre restored Howell Prairie, which provides habitat for numerous pollinator species and native wildlife.
The event will take place at the Weldon Spring Site Interpretive Center, located at 7295 Highway 94, approximately two miles south of Interstate 64/40. Parking will be available on-site.
Pollinator Palooza is supported by several sponsors and conservation partners committed to protecting pollinators and promoting environmental stewardship.
The event offers a unique opportunity for families, gardeners, and nature enthusiasts to learn how they can help sustain pollinator populations and support healthy ecosystems in Missouri and beyond.
Photo Credit: istock-herreid
Categories: Missouri, General