Enjoy a full weekend of research lectures from top paleontologists + Keynote talk and dinner. Includes museum admission.
About this EventExperience all the science all weekend!
This ticket type includes:
- Friday Night Talk (Member Night)
- All Saturday Daytime Lectures
- Saturday Night Keynote & Dinner
- All Sunday Daytime Lectures
Why PaleoFest 2026?
Be Part of the Discovery!
PaleoFest is more than a weekend event; it’s where history comes alive! Hosted at the Burpee Museum of Natural History, this celebration brings world-renowned paleontologists to Rockford, IL, to share "breaking news" science. Whether you're a family of explorers or a dedicated researcher, PaleoFest brings the prehistoric world to you!
What’s Happening?
- World-Class Talks: Hear directly from the researchers making headlines. All evening and weekend talks are tailored for a general audience—no scientific background required!
- NEW for 2026! The Paleo Marketplace: Our biggest expansion yet! Shop a curated selection of vendors from across the country featuring fossils, minerals, books, and unique paleo-art. (Included with General Admission).
- NEW for 2026! Student Poster Presentations: Experience the future of science as students present their own ongoing research. (Included with General Admission).
- Pop-Up Exhibits & Games: Access exclusive "one-day-only" stations and interactive games throughout the museum’s exhibit halls.
Headlining Speakers & Special Events
- Friday Honorary Member Kick-Off: Join Dr. James Napoli, lead author of the groundbreaking 2025 Nature paper on the reclassification of "Jane." Hear the inside story of how Nanotyrannus was officially recognized as a distinct species.
- Saturday Keynote Dinner: Meet Dr. Jingmai O’Connor from the as she discusses the world-famous "Chicago Archaeopteryx" and the spectacular evolution of flight.
🔬 For Students & Research Enthusiasts
Deep dives into the science, including the landmark Nanotyrannus findings.
- Paleo Research Package (1 Person): 3-Day Lecture Pass + Saturday Dinner/Keynote + Lanyard. Price: Member $140 | Non-Member $170
- VIP Research Package (1 Person): Everything above PLUS Priority Dinner Seating + Swag Bag (Includes T-Shirt!). Price: Member $210 | Non-Member $260
- The All-Day Lecture Pass: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday daytime lectures (excludes dinner). Price: Member $75 | Non-Member $95
Also check out other Arts events in Rockford, Workshops in Rockford, Literary Art events in Rockford.
