On Saturday, June 9, from noon to 4 p.m., the beauty and importance of New Jersey’s butterflies and other pollinators will be celebrated at the annual Butterfly Bonanza at Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area in Montville Township.

Butterfly Bonanza is packed with excitement, entertainment, and education for all ages. Participants can enjoy a guided Bug Safari tour of the butterfly garden, discover how to bring butterflies into a garden or yard, travel through lifecycle stations to experience metamorphosis, and walk through the ‘Hall of Arthropods’ to meet unusual live insects and other invertebrates. There will be live music fun game and butterfly-themed crafts.

The local beekeeper from Gooserock Farm in Montville will greet visitors, who will see an active hive. Locally-produced bee products will be available for purchase as well.

At 2 p.m., the highlight of this event, the Pollinator Parade, will take place. Children will learn a pollination song and follow performer Ken Gallipeau for a procession around the grounds with costumed staff and visitors dressed as hummingbirds, moths, bats, bees, and of course, butterflies. Participants may wear their own costume or create one at the Pollinator Parade Craft Station.

Admission to this event is $4 per adult, $3 per child ages 3 and up. Children 2 and under are free. For more information and directions to Pyramid Mountain National Historic Area in Montville Township, visit morrisparks.net or call 973.334.3130.