Monarch Madness connects families with nature, pollinators

DECATUR — Experience the excitement of tagging and releasing monarch butterflies as they begin their remarkable migration to Mexico at Monarch Madness. Monarch Madness is a free community event from the University of Illinois Extension. Co-sponsoring the event is the Macon County Conservation District.

Monarch Madness will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sept. 19 at Rock Springs Nature Center, 3939 Nearing Lane in Decatur. This all-ages event will feature pollinator-themed arts and crafts, butterfly yoga, a monarch life cycle obstacle course, short nature hikes, and more. Frozen Spoon will also be on-site, where attendees can purchase their favorite ice cream treat.

“Monarch Madness is a wonderful opportunity for our community to experience the magic of the monarch migration while learning how important pollinators are to our everyday lives,” says Stephanie Hale, Extension program coordinator. “By watching monarch butterflies begin their incredible journey to Mexico, participating in hands-on activities, and discovering simple ways to support pollinators at home, we hope to inspire people of all ages to become better stewards of our natural world.”

Extension Master Gardener and Master Naturalist volunteers in Macon County are hosting the event. Monarch Madness celebrates and raises awareness of the important role pollinators play in supporting healthy ecosystems and thriving communities.

 For more information, contact Stephanie Hale at [email protected].

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact (217) 877-6042. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.

Maria Lightner, University of Illinois Extension

Website |  + postsBio

Maria Lightner is the marketing and communications program coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension. She currently serves the area covering DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt counties.

• Maria Lightner, University of Illinois Extension

  Illinois Extension accepting applications for fall Master Gardener program
• Maria Lightner, University of Illinois Extension

  Multilingual food safety training supports local workforce
• Maria Lightner, University of Illinois Extension

  Illinois Extension offers diabetes nutrition series
• Maria Lightner, University of Illinois Extension

  4-H public speaking contest recognizes youth communication skills