University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener and Master Naturalist volunteers will present a "Butterflies and Bugs" open house on Saturday, September 18, from 1-3 pm in the gardens at the Dana-Thomas House State Historic site located at 301 E. Lawrence Avenue, Springfield.

Children and their families are invited to learn about the butterfly motif in the house and investigate the courtyard and cottage garden's butterfly and bug habitats, or play a butterfly game in the courtyard, or do both! The volunteers will also share information on planting Pollinator Pocket gardens and planters to help attract butterflies and pollinators to guests' own yards. The event is free to the public.

If you have questions about this event, call the Dana-Thomas house at 217-782-6776. Please note, all individuals over the age of 2, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a face covering over their mouth and nose while visiting indoor spaces at the site.