Lubee Bat Conservancy Gearing Up For 20th Anniversary Festival

GAINESVILLE ‒ For two decades, the Florida Bat Festival has been a much-anticipated family friendly fall event and is a beacon of education, conservation, and excitement. Join Lubee Bat Conservancy for the 20^th Anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. for a day filled with fun activities, captivating exhibits, and unforgettable experiences for the whole family. And of course, come see the world's largest bats with six-foot wingspans.

Lubee is home to over 200 bats from 10 species, including the world’s largest bat, the Malayan Flying Fox, with a wingspan of six feet. Meet seven adorable baby bats born earlier this year and watch them play and explore their habitats, while not straying too far from mom. Guests will also have an opportunity to say hello to the nearly 60 bats that found their forever homes at Lubee this year. Some look like rabbits with their big ears, others like a cross between a teddy bear and Pomeranian.

From the tiny pipistrelles to majestic flying foxes, visitors can immerse themselves in the diversity of bat species through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and educational presentations. Learn about their vital contributions to the environment and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these remarkable creatures.

From face painting to bat-themed crafts to visiting 140-plus vendors, there's something for everyone. Get creative, unleash your imagination, and take home unique souvenirs to commemorate your day.

Refuel and recharge with an array of mouthwatering food options available throughout the festival grounds. The festival Beer Garden is the perfect shaded place to embrace the great outdoors on Lubee property. Sit under 250-plus year-old Live Oaks while enjoying brews from over 15 Florida breweries, live music, or marveling and admiring the beauty of oak trees that have been around since the 1700s. Ticket required to enjoy the beers, not the shade, food, or music.

Attendance at the Florida Bat Festival directly impacts and contributes to the bats at Lubee and vital global conservation initiatives aimed at preserving bats and their habitats.

This is an incredible opportunity to celebrate 20 years of bat conservation and education at the Florida Bat Festival. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, for the 20th Annual Bat Festival.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit lubee.org/flbatfestival or follow on social media.

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