Previous Events
October 2024
MAPS Satellite Show 2024 in Northfield Inn, IL
DATE: Wednesday, October 16 - Saturday, October 19, 2024
VENUE: Northfield Inn, Suites & Conference Center (3280 Northfield Drive, Springfield, IL 62702)
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
MAPS National Fossil Exposition XLV
DATE: October 18 - 20, 2024
TIME: Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 8am - 5pm, Sunday 8am - 3pm
VENUE: Orr Building (Illinois State Fairgrounds, 66 4 H Road, Springfield, Illinois)
COST: Free
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
HOST: Mid America Paleontology Society (MAPS)
Buy, Sell, Swap and Display of Fossils Exclusively!
Free Admission to the World's Largest Fossil-Only Exhibition!
Visit http://www.midamericapaleo.org for more information.
WNY Earth Science Day with Buffalo Geological Society
DATE: October 12, 2024
TIME: 9 - 4pm
VENUE: Heritage Discovery Center (100 Lee St. Buffalo NY 14210)
COST: Free
HOST: Buffalo Geological Society
This event is to educate students, children and adults on the importance of geologists to our society and various job opportunities for geologists.
September 2024
Erie County Earth Science Day at Penn Dixie CANCELLED
DATE: September 14, 2024
TIME: 10 - 3 pm
VENUE: Penn Dixie Fossil Park
COST: Free
HOST: Penn Dixie Fossil Park
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
join us from 10 am – 3 pm, rain or shine, to learn about Western New York’s natural history, ecology, and resources through interactive exhibits and demonstrations in a family-friendly setting. Experience hands-on learning under the big tent!
There will also be a special Memory Quest activity on Earth Science Day! Teams of two or more must search around the park to answer questions and collect tokens to solve a puzzle. A keen ear and a sharp memory will help your team to the grand prize!
Thanks to the generous support of Erie County and the Buffalo Association of Professional Geologists, Earth Science Day is FREE to ALL – no registration or tickets are required. All ages are welcome. This event is accessible to those with mobility impairments and we recommend the use of a reach tool for fossil collecting.
Complimentary fossil collecting trowels will be available to all guests during the event.
Teachers: Please contact us in advance to schedule your group. There is no charge for unguided group tours on Earth Science Day but we request advance notice to help with our parking planning. Guided group tours are available at our usual rates.
This FREE event is made possible by Erie County and the Town of Hamburg. Donations are welcome through the day of the event and will support Penn Dixie’s community education efforts.
August 2024
Stone Tool Craftsman Show
DATE: Friday August 22, 10 AM - Sunday August 25, 2024 2 PM
TIME: 10am - 2pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday
VENUE: Letchworth State Park, Highbanks Recreation Area
HOST: Genesee Valley Flint Knappers Association
https://gvknappers.tripod.com/events.html
Open to the public; food concessions and group camping available for the weekend.
July 2024
Syracuse Gem & Mineral Show
DATE: Saturday July 13 and Sunday July 14, 2024
TIME: Saturday 10 - 6pm, Sunday 10 - 4pm
VENUE: NYS Fairgrounds, Center of Progress Building (575 State Fair Blvd. Syracuse NY)
COST: TBD
HOST: Gem & Mineral Society of Syracuse
https://syracusegemsociety.com/gem-world#154574c4-6ba8-45b8-a66a-e75c49c75cbd
So Much to See and Do:
Minerals • Fossils • Crystals • Jewelry • Demonstrations • Lectures • Metaphysical
Youth Area with Sluice and Activities
The Famous 25 Cent Straw Draw
Located at NYS Fairgrounds,
Center of Progress Building
581 State Fair Blvd. Syracuse NY
*Bring an original NY Rocks postcard or ad in the paper and receive $1.00 OFF
Children under 12 & Scouts in uniform with an adult get in FREE
Shop ‘til You Drop
Enjoy a marketplace filled with 56 Unique Retail Vendors and 5 Wholesale Vendors. Get a preview of who’s coming to the show:
Learning Center Presentations
Saturday & Sunday!
Be entertained & enlightened by the wonders of the earth including wonders right in the State of New York, by four amazing professionals sharing their expertise at The Learning Center
The Metaphysical Center
Stop by The Metaphysical Center where Sages, Psychic Mediums, Mystics and Holistic Therapies all tap the wisdom within crystals to help you align with your highest potential in mind, body & spirit
Prices vary
French Creek Indian Artifact Show
DATE: Saturday July 27, 2024
TIME: 8 - 5pm
VENUE: Saint Philip Catholic Church Social Hall 401 South Mercer Street Linesville, PA
COST:
HOST: French Creek Archaeological Society
June 2023
Fairy Festival at the Buffalo Botanical Gardens
DATE: Saturday, June 15, 2024
TIME: 10 - 2pm
VENUE: 2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218
COST: Price of Admission
HOST: Buffalo Botanical Gardens
Join us for the annual Fairy Festival at the Buffalo Botanical Gardens for another Wegmans Day of Play! Fairies have taken over the Botanical Gardens and it's up to you to catch them! Skip through the Botanical Gardens with your favorite set of wings and go on a magical scavenger hunt through the secret world of fairies.
Please note that some vendors will have items available for purchase at a separate price from admission.
Saturday, June 15
Fairy Festival
Fairy Festival: 10am-2pm
April 2024
THINK GREEN at the Grand Island Welcome Center
DATE: Saturday, April 20, 2024
TIME: 11 - 2pm
VENUE: 1999 Alvin Road, Grand Island, NY
COST: FREE
HOST: Taste NY at the WNY Welcome Center
Taste NY will be giving away 100 native NYS trees (first come, first serve) starting at NOON, and featuring sustainable local products and small agriculture businesses that use environmentally friendly processes from our Taste NY store.
Other WNY environmentally friendly businesses and organizations will be joining us as well with informative tables & displays, and items for sale!
Other activities include:
• Planting wildflower seeds in compostable cups to take home
• Family crafts and activities
• Educational handouts to learn about how our vendors are thinking green
• Free samples of sustainable food products inside Taste NY
Other vendors & activities will unfold as we get closer to the date!
Celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day with us! 1999 Alvin Road Grand Island, NY
2024 Albany Gem Mineral Fossil Show
DATE: Saturday April 13 & Sunday April 14 2024
TIME: Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm
VENUE: Polish Community Center (225 Washington Ave Ext. Albany, NY 12205)
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
https://capitaldistrictmineralclub.com/
March 2024
Buffalo 54th Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil Show: Birthstones
DATE: Saturday March 16 & Sunday March 17 2024
TIME: Saturday 9am - 6pm, Sunday 10am - 5pm
VENUE: Market, Grange & State Police Buildings at the Hamburg Fairgrounds (5820 South Park Ave., Hamburg, NY) (please use South Park Ave entrance)
COST: Adults $7, 2-Day pass $10, Scouts in uniform & children 12 yrs and under FREE
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
HOST: Buffalo Geological Society
Come to see “Birthstones” at the Buffalo Geological Society’s 54th Annual Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show on March 16-17, 2024, at the Erie County Fairgrounds in the Grange, Market and New York State Police Buildings in Hamburg, NY, on Saturday 9 am-6 pm and Sunday 10 am-5 pm.
This annual show provides an instant museum of Buffalo Geological Society Members’ fossils, minerals, and jewelry; demonstrators; the famous Mini-Mine for young collectors; the new mining operation for children and adults; mineral and fossil identification; and a variety of non-profit exhibitors. A Fluorescent mineral exhibit will be available.
More info: https://www.bgsny.org/annual-show
November 2023
DinoFEST at the Buffalo Museum of Science
DATE: Friday November 3 & Saturday November 4 2023
TIME: Friday (Sensory Night) 5pm - 8pm Saturday 10am - 4pm
VENUE: Buffalo Museum of Science (1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo NY 14211)
COST: Adults $21, Kids $18, Members FREE
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Get ready to stomp and roar, because DinoFEST is BACK! Gather your budding paleontologists and geologists for a day of family fun, including:
- hunt for hidden dino surprises in our oobleck dig pit
- create your own fossil work of art
- dig around our foam dino dig pit
- investigate fossils with real paleontologists
- examine ancient rocks with the Buffalo Geological Society
- enjoy a free family photo op with the Science Museum Camera Club
- and more!
Plus, guests may also purchase paleo bags to run through our Fossil Creek Sifting Station!
Save time in line and reserve your DinoFEST tickets online in advance.
Age: All ages
Cost: $21 for adults | $18 for children, FREE for members
Looking for Sensory Night: DinoFEST? Click here
October 2023
Buffalo Botanical Gardens Coleus & Creatures Exhibit
DATE: September 1 - October 31, 2023
TIME: 10am - 4pm
VENUE: Buffalo Botanical Gardens (2655 South Park Ave., Buffalo NY 14218)
COST: Included in E-ticket Admission
$15.50 Adults
$14.00 Seniors (62+) & Students (13+ with ID)$8.50 Kids 3-12Kids 2 and under are free but must have a ticketGarden Members are free but must have a ticket
EVENT CATEGORY: Exhibit
Past & Present was once again asked by the Buffalo Botanical Gardens to exhibit in their show, Coleus & Creatures from now until Halloween! We will have some daunting dinos like a Triceratops skull, a real walrus skull, a life-size Deinonychus raptor model, and fabulous fossils like our T-rex skull cast and a bison skull hidden around the Gardens!
Take a trip to the Gardens and come visit us down the road (we're just 5 minutes away!) to tell us what was your favorite thing to see!
"Step into a world of prehistoric plants, captivating creatures, and colorful coleus at the Botanical Gardens! Explore the Botanical Gardens to find dozens of creatures made of LIVE plants including dinosaur succulent topiaries, a massive megalodon, a moss-made pterodactyl, a giant buffalo, a dragonfly, turtles, and more planty friends taking on new characters giving "plant-life" a whole new meaning! Looking for some real dinosaurs? Our friends from Past & Present will be showing off their life-size fossil casts including a giant T-Rex skull, a Triceratops skull and some life-like dinos hidden among the foliage.
A special thank you to our friends from Past & Present! Past & Present is Buffalo's very own Science and Nature store as well as a Fossil Museum that is free and open to the public! They're your one-stop shop for all things minerals, crystals, fossils and more! Located down the street from us at 3767 South Park Ave in Blasdell, NY.
E-TICKETS are recommended for all visitors. Walk-ins may be turned away if our visitor capacity has been met. Please arrive within 15 minutes of your arrival time. Most visitors spend 45 minutes-1.5 hours to complete their visit, but you are welcome to stay until we close to the public."
MAPS National Fossil Exhibition XLIV
DATE: Friday October 20 and Sunday October 22, 2023
TIME: Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 8am-5pm, Sunday 8am - 3pm
VENUE: Orr Building (Illinois State Fairgrounds 66 4H Road, Springfield, Illinois)
COST: Age 19 and over $2, age 12-18 $1, kids under 12 FREE with adult
HOST: Mid America Paleontology Society (MAPS)
http://midamericapaleo.org/content/expo.php
The MAPS Fossil Expo is the largest show in the world that exhibits fossils exclusively. You'll find an enormous variety and number of fossils ranging from tiny insects to giant dinosaur bones. The great range of items at the show makes fossils accessible to all interests and budgets.
In addition to the Fossil Show itself, the Expo also presents a Friday evening lecture by a trained scientist speaking about the fossil theme of the year. And don't miss the fossil auction where fast-paced bidding brings great buys and all the proceeds go to the society's work of furthering paleontology education.
Botanical Gardens BOOtanical Celebration
DATE: Saturday October 28 2023
TIME: 10am - 3pm
VENUE: Buffalo Botanical Gardens
COST: with Admission price
HOST: Buffalo Botanical Gardens
A Wegmans Day of Play
Included with Regular Admission
Includes Coleus and Creatures Exhibit
Creatures and ghosts have come together to take over the Botanical Gardens for BOOTanical 2023! See all the exciting live-plant creatures and learn about the spooky natural world with a ‘creepy curiosities’ scavenger hunt. Be sure to check out the carnivorous plant collection and learn with our Botanical Gardens team about Coleus and our very own Corpse Plant Collection. Create your own clay bug stamps and dig for fossils in our play areas.
Joining us for the day will be Hahn’s Honey Bees, Repco, and Penn Dixie, with Dinosaurs and Artifacts displayed throughout the conservatory from Past & Present.
Rochester Gem Mineral Jewelry & Fossil Show and Sale
DATE: Saturday October 28 and Sunday October 29, 2023
TIME: Saturday 10am - 6pm and Sunday 10am - 5pm
VENUE: Total Sports Experience (435 W. Commercial St., East Rochester, NY)
COST: Adults $7, kids under 12 FREE with adult, 2 day pass $10
HOST: Rochester Lapidary Society
http://rochesterlapidary.org/show/
Once again, it is being held the fourth weekend in October; October 28th and 29th, 2023.
The times will be Sat. the 22nd -10 to 6 and Sun. the 23rd - 10 to 5. It will be held at Total Sports Experience, 435 W. Commercial St., East Rochester (just off Interstate 490).
This year we did raise the price by $1. We have not had a rate change in many years and a lot of other shows have raised their admission even more. Adults $7, Kids under 12 free with adult; 2 day pass, $10. Advance sales tickets can skip the line at the door, and go right to the check in table. Advance Sale tickets can be upgraded to the 2-day pass at the door for an additional $3 per ticket. Saturday only.
There are specimens for beginning and advanced collectors; beads to make your own necklaces, craft supplies, jewelry of all kinds, ethnic, antique or modern; geodes, and lights made of salt. You can buy a slice of a dinosaur tooth, or a fossil dinosaur bone. Our vendors have wonderful things from around the world.
Children’s activities like soapstone carving, mineral bingo, straw draw, and rock painting will be with mineral trivia and soapstone carving demonstrations for kids. Adult crafting tutorials/mini-workshops and instruction as well.
August 2023
Stone Tool Craftsman Show
DATE: Friday August 25, 10 AM - Sunday August 27, 2023 2 PM
TIME: 10am - 2pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday
VENUE: Letchworth State Park, Highbanks Recreation Area
HOST: Genesee Valley Flint Knappers Association
https://gvknappers.tripod.com/events.html
Open to the public; food concessions and group camping available for the weekend.
July 2023
Syracuse Gem & Mineral Show
DATE: Saturday July 8 and Sunday July 9, 2023
TIME: Saturday 10 - 6pm, Sunday 10 - 4pm
VENUE: NYS Fairgrounds, Center of Progress Building (581 State Fair Blvd. Syracuse NY)
COST: $7.00, children under 12 & scouts in uniform with an adult FREE
HOST: Gem & Mineral Society of Syracuse
https://syracusegemsociety.com/gem-world#154574c4-6ba8-45b8-a66a-e75c49c75cbd
So Much to See and Do:
Minerals • Fossils • Crystals • Jewelry • Demonstrations • Lectures • Metaphysical
Youth Area with Sluice and Activities
The Famous 25 Cent Straw Draw
Located at NYS Fairgrounds,
Center of Progress Building
581 State Fair Blvd. Syracuse NY
Price:
$7.00 per person*
*Bring an original NY Rocks postcard or ad in the paper and receive $1.00 OFF
Children under 12 & Scouts in uniform with an adult get in FREE
Shop ‘til You Drop
Enjoy a marketplace filled with 56 Unique Retail Vendors and 5 Wholesale Vendors. Get a preview of who’s coming to the show:
Learning Center Presentations
Saturday & Sunday!
Be entertained & enlightened by the wonders of the earth including wonders right in the State of New York, by four amazing professionals sharing their expertise at The Learning Center
The Metaphysical Center
Stop by The Metaphysical Center where Sages, Psychic Mediums, Mystics and Holistic Therapies all tap the wisdom within crystals to help you align with your highest potential in mind, body & spirit
Prices vary
French Creek Indian Artifact Show
DATE: Saturday July 29, 2023
TIME: 8 - 5pm
VENUE: Saint Philip Catholic Church Social Hall 401 South Mercer Street Linesville, PA
COST:
HOST: French Creek Archaeological Society
June 2023
Fairy Festival at the Buffalo Botanical Gardens
DATE: Sunday, June 11, 2023
TIME: 10 - 3pm
VENUE: 2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218
COST: Price of Admission
HOST: Buffalo Botanical Gardens
Join us for the annual Fairy Festival at the Buffalo Botanical Gardens for another Wegmans Day of Play! Fairies have taken over the Botanical Gardens and it's up to you to catch them! Skip through the Botanical Gardens with your favorite set of wings and go on a magical scavenger hunt through the secret world of fairies. Peek into a charming fairy village and talk with educators about interesting plants, winged pollinators and shop for your very own fairy crown with Nickel City Floral. Keep those fairy habitats safe by learning about pesticide free lawns with Erie County Environmental Management Council and their Spokesgnome, Frederick Lawn Gnomested! Also, very special this year, the WNY Rose Society will be joining us with their Rose Show in the Administration Building! Flutter over to see some stunning roses from 10am-4pm.
Please note that some vendors will have items available for purchase at a separate price from admission.
Sunday, June 11
Fairy Festival and Rose Show
Fairy Festival: 10am-3pm
Rose Show: 10am-4pm
April 2023
THINK GREEN at the Grand Island Welcome Center
DATE: Saturday, April 22, 2023
TIME: 11 - 2pm
VENUE: 1999 Alvin Road, Grand Island, NY
COST: FREE
HOST: Taste NY at the WNY Welcome Center
Taste NY at the WNY Welcome Center presents THINK GREEN at the Welcome Center on Grand Island. Join us from 11am - 2pm with a day of FREE earth friendly activities.
Taste NY will be giving away 100 native NYS trees (first come, first serve) starting at NOON, and featuring sustainable local products and small agriculture businesses that use environmentally friendly processes from our Taste NY store.
Other WNY environmentally friendly businesses and organizations like Citizens Coalition for Wildlife and Environment, students from NU Cares, NY Power Authority, Erie County 4H, Past & Present Science and Nature Store, and Buffalo Geological Society will be joining us as well with informative tables and displays! Erie County Master Gardener will be on site to help with questions and perform PH soil testing for $2 per sample!
Other activities include:
• Planting wildflower seeds in compostable cups to take home
• DIY bird feeder craft, great for kids
• Other kids/family crafts & activities brought to you by Erie County 4-H and NU CARES-Student Club for Animal Rights, Environment, and Sustainability
• Educational handouts to learn about how our vendors are thinking green
• Free samples of sustainable food products inside Taste NY
Other vendors & activities will unfold as we get closer to the date!
Celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day with us! 1999 Alvin Road Grand Island, NY
March 2023
53rd Annual Gem Mineral Fossil Show: Dinosaurs are Coming!
DATE: Saturday, March 18 - Sunday, March 19, 2023
TIME: Saturday 9am - 7pm, Sunday 9am - 6pm
VENUE: The Hamburg Fairgrounds: Market, Grange & State Police Buildings
COST: $7, 2 Days $10, Children 12 years & under FREE
HOST: Buffalo Geological Society, Inc.
“Dinosaurs are Coming” to the Buffalo Geological Society’s 53rd Annual Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show on March 18-19, 2023, at the Erie County Fairgrounds in the Grange, Market and New York State Police Buildings in Hamburg, NY, on Saturday, 9 am-7 pm and Sunday, 9 am-6 pm.
Please note the expanded hours of this year’s show due to the popularity of dinosaurs. In addition to models of over a dozen dinosaurs, there will be actual dinosaur bones collected by Glen LaPlaca, of Past & Present Science and Nature Store, on display.
(For members attending the March Show, membership renewals and reservations to the banquet can be made there. They should go to the club table for more information)
November 2022
DinoFEST at the Buffalo Museum of Science
DATE: November 12, 2022
TIME: Saturday 10am - 4pm
VENUE: Buffalo Museum of Science (1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo NY 14211)
COST: Adults $20, Kids $17, Members FREE
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
October 2022
Buffalo Botanical Gardens Coleus & Creatures Exhibit
DATE: August 20 - October 31, 2022
TIME: 10am - 4pm
VENUE: Buffalo Botanical Gardens (2655 South Park Ave., Buffalo NY 14218)
COST: Included in E-ticket Admission
$14.00 Adults
$12.50 Seniors (62+) & Students (13+ with ID)$7.50 Kids 3-12Kids 2 and under are free but must have a ticketGarden Members are free but must have a ticket
EVENT CATEGORY: Exhibit
Past & Present was once again asked by the Buffalo Botanical Gardens to exhibit in their show, Coleus & Creatures from now until Halloween! We will have some daunting dinos like a Triceratops model and life-size Deinonychus raptor model, and fabulous fossils like our T-rex skull cast and a bison skull hidden around the Gardens!
Take a trip to the Gardens and come visit us down the road (we're just 5 minutes away!) to tell us what was your favorite thing to see!
Calling all colorful creatures, big and small! Delight in the vibrant colors and friendly "creatures" of this brand-new exhibit at the Botanical Gardens! The Botanical Gardens will be filled with several cool, colorful creatures made out of live plants including dinosaur succulent topiaries, a coleus peacock, moss-made dinosaurs, a giant buffalo, a dragonfly, a shark, and more planty friends taking on new characters giving plant-life a whole new meaning! You'll also be dazzled by hundreds of vibrant colored coleus throughout the conservatory for some pops of color like you've never seen before.
More details coming soon!
E-TICKETS are recommended for all visitors. Walk-ins may be turned away if our visitor capacity has been met. Please arrive within 15 minutes of your arrival time. Most visitors spend 45 minutes-1.5 hours to complete their visit, but you are welcome to stay until we close to the public.
MAPS Satellite Show 2021 in Northfield Inn, IL
DATE: Wednesday, October 19, 2021 - Saturday, October 22, 2022
VENUE: Northfield Inn, Suites & Conference Center (3280 Northfield Drive, Springfield, IL 62702)
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Fri, Oct 21: 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Sat, Oct 22: 9:00am to Noon
MAPS National Fossil Exposition XLIII
DATE: October 21 - 23, 2022
TIME: Friday 8am - 5pm, Saturday 8am - 5pm, Sunday 8am - 3pm
VENUE: Orr Building (Illinois State Fairgrounds, 66 4 H Road, Springfield, Illinois)
COST: 19 years old & Over $2; 12 - 18 $1; Under 12 FREE
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
HOST: Mid America Paleontology Society (MAPS)
Buy, Sell, Swap and Display of Fossils Exclusively!
The topic for Expo 2022 is 'Lagerstatten'.
Keynote Speaker: Don Bissett
Visit http://www.midamericapaleo.org for more information.
Rochester Gem, Mineral, Jewelry and Fossil Show & Sale
DATE: October 22 - 23, 2022
TIME: Saturday 10am - 6pm, Sunday 10am - 5pm
VENUE: Total Sports Experience (435 West Commercial Street, Rochester, NY 14445)
COST: Adults $6, Kids 12 & under FREE, 2-day pass $9. Advance tickets available.
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
HOST: Rochester Lapidary Society
Once again, it is being held the fourth weekend in October; October 22nd and 23rd, 2022.
The times will be Sat. the 22nd -10 to 6 and Sun. the 23rd - 10 to 5. It will be held at Total Sports Experience, 435 W. Commercial St., East Rochester (just off Interstate 490).
Adults $6, Kids under 12 free with adult, 2 day pass, $9. Advance sales tickets can skip the line at the door, and go right to the check in table. Advance Sale tickets can be upgraded to the 2-day pass at the door for an additional $3 per ticket. Saturday only.
There are specimens for beginning and advanced collectors; beads to make your own necklaces, craft supplies, jewelry of all kinds, ethnic, antique or modern; geodes which can be opened on site, lights made of salt. You can buy a slice of a dinosaur tooth, or a fossil dinosaur bone. Our vendors have wonderful things from around the world.
Children’s activities like soapstone carving, mineral bingo, and rock painting will be replaced with mineral trivia and soapstone carving demonstrations for kids. Adult crafting tutorials/mini-workshops are being converted to demonstrations and instruction, but shared tools and supplies will not be available for hands-on learning.
Erie County Earth Science Day at Penn Dixie
DATE: Saturday October 1, 2022
TIME: 10 - 3 pm
VENUE: Penn Dixie Fossil Park
COST: Free
HOST: Penn Dixie Fossil Park
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
On Saturday, October 1st, join us from 10 am – 3 pm, rain or shine, to learn about Western New York’s natural history, ecology, and resources through interactive exhibits and demonstrations in a family-friendly setting. Experience hands-on learning under the big tent!
2022’s special guests include:
- Buffalo Association of Professional Geologists
- Buffalo Astronomical Association
- Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens
- Buffalo Geological Society
- Buffalo Zoo
- CEPA Gallery
- Erie County 4-H
- Explore & More: The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum
- Graycliff Conservancy
- Hamburg Public Library
- NYGeology
- Past & Present Fossil and Rock Shop
- Buffalo Museum of Science & Tifft Nature Preserve
- Reinstein Woods
- WNY PRISM
There will also be a special Memory Quest activity on Earth Science Day! Teams of two or more must search around the park to answer questions and collect tokens to solve a puzzle. A keen ear and a sharp memory will help your team to the grand prize!
Thanks to the generous support of Erie County and the Buffalo Association of Professional Geologists, Earth Science Day is FREE to ALL – no registration or tickets are required. All ages are welcome. This event is accessible to those with mobility impairments and we recommend the use of a reach tool for fossil collecting.
Complimentary fossil collecting trowels will be available to all guests during the event.
Teachers: Please contact us in advance to schedule your group. There is no charge for unguided group tours on Earth Science Day but we request advance notice to help with our parking planning. Guided group tours are available at our usual rates.
This FREE event is made possible by Erie County and the Town of Hamburg. Donations are welcome through the day of the event and will support Penn Dixie’s community education efforts.
August 2022
Stone Tool Craftsman Show
DATE: Friday August 26, 10 AM - Sunday August 28, 2022 2 PM
TIME: 10am - 2pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday
VENUE: Letchworth State Park, Highbanks Recreation Area
HOST: Genesee Valley Flint Knappers Association
https://gvknappers.tripod.com/events.html
Open to the public; food concessions and group camping available for the weekend.
July 2022
2022 Syracuse Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show
DATE: July 9 - 10, 2022
TIME: TBD
VENUE: Center of Progress Building at NY State Fairgrounds (575 State Fair Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13209)
March 2022
52nd Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil Show: Fossils of New York
DATE: Saturday, March 19 - Sunday, March 20, 2022
TIME: Saturday 10am - 6pm, Sunday 10am - 5pm
VENUE: Market, Grange & State Police Buildings at the Hamburg Fairgrounds (5820 South Park Ave., Hamburg, NY) (please use South Park Ave entrance)
COST: Adults $6, 2 Day pass $9, Children 12 & under FREE
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
HOST: The Buffalo Geological Society, Inc.
The Buffalo Geological Society presents its 52nd Annual Gem Mineral & Fossil Show! A great field trip for the family and a real learning experience!
FREE PARKING, drawings and refreshments, and family fun!
Demonstrations, jewelry, Mini-Mine for children, exhibits, and dealers with minerals and fossils.
April 2022
Buffalo Geological Society Presentation - Speaker Glen LaPlaca
DATE: Friday, April 1, 2022
TIME: 7:30pm
VENUE: Heritage Discovery Center, 100 Lee Street, Buffalo NY.
EVENT CATEGORY: Presentation
HOST: Buffalo Geological Society
Open to the public!
October 2021
MAPS Satellite Show 2021 in Northfield Inn, IL
DATE: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 - Saturday, October 23, 2021
*NEW VENUE: Northfield Inn, Suites & Conference Center (3280 Northfield Drive, Springfield, IL 62702)
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
MAPS National Fossil Exposition 2021
DATE: Friday, October 22, 2021 - Sunday, October 24, 2021
*NEW VENUE: Illinois State Fairground, The Orr Building (66 4 H Rd, Springfield, IL 62702)
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
2021 Rochester Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show & Sale
DATE: Saturday, October 23, 10am - 6pm & Sunday October 24, 10am - 5pm
TIME: Saturday 10am - 6pm, Sunday 10am - 5pm
VENUE: Total Sports Experience (435 West Commercial Street, East Rochester, NY 14445)
COST: Adults $6, kids 12 and under FREE, 2-day pass $9
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
HOST: Rochester Lapidary Society
Once again, it is being held the fourth weekend in October; October 23rd and 24th, 2021.
The times will be Sat. the 23rd -10 to 6 and Sun. the 24th - 10 to 5. It will be held at Total Sports Experience, 435 W. Commercial St., East Rochester (just off Interstate 490).
Adults $6, Kids under 12 free with adult, 2 day pass, $9. Advance sales tickets can skip the line at the door, and go right to the check in table.
There are specimens for beginning and advanced collectors; beads to make your own necklaces, craft supplies, jewelry of all kinds, ethnic, antique or modern; geodes which can be opened on site, lights made of salt. You can buy a slice of a dinosaur tooth, or a fossil dinosaur bone. Our vendors have wonderful things from around the world.
COVID-19 Info: Pending any changes in the policies for New York State, we will be following the rule of wearing a mask and staying socially distant. Depending on attendance restrictions, we may have people wait before entering the event. Further information will be made available on our website at rochesterlapidary.org/show
23rd Annual Erie County Earth Science Day at Penn Dixie
DATE: Saturday, October 2, 2021
TIME: 10am - 4pm
VENUE: Penn Dixie Fossil Park (4050 North Street Blasdell, NY 14219)
COST: FREE FOR ALL AGES!
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
HOST: Penn Dixie Fossil Park
On Saturday October 2nd, join us from 10 am – 4 pm, rain or shine, to learn about Western New York’s natural history, ecology, and resources through interactive exhibits and demonstrations in a family friendly setting. Experience hands-on learning under the big tent! 2021’s special guests include:
- Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens
- Hamburg Public Library
- Graycliff Conservancy
- Buffalo Geological Society
- Buffalo Museum of Science
- Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper
- Buffalo Zoo
- eGroup
- Explore & More: The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum
- Past & Present Fossil and Rock Shop
- SUNY Buffalo Geology Department
Thanks to the generous support of Erie County and our sponsors, Earth Science Day is FREE to ALL. All ages welcome. This event is accessible to those with mobility impairments and we recommend the use of a reach tool for fossil collecting.
Complimentary fossil collecting trowels will be available to all guests during the event.
Teachers: Please contact us in advance to schedule your group. There is no charge for unguided group tours on Earth Science Day but we request advance notice to help with our parking planning. Guided group tours are available at our usual rates.
This FREE event is made possible by Erie County and Town of Hamburg. Donations are welcome through the day of the event and will support Penn Dixie’s community education efforts.
August 2021
Stone Tool Craftsman Show & the 31st Annual Gathering of the Genesee Valley Flint Knappers Association, Inc.
DATE: Friday, August 27, 2021 - Sunday, August 29, 2021
VENUE: Letchworth State Park (1 Letchworth State Park Castile, NY 14427)
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Website: Genesee Valley Flint Knappers Association, Inc.
Letchworth State Park Website (1) for More Information
July 2021
Gem & Mineral Society of Syracuse Show 2021 CANCELLED
DATE: Saturday, July 10, 2021 - Sunday, July 11, 2021
VENUE: Center of Progress Building New York State Fair (575 State Fair Blvd. Syracuse, NY)
CONTACT: Duck Lyons, President
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Website: http://gmss.us/
52nd Annual Gem & Mineral Show & Sale
DATE: Saturday, July 24 - Sunday, July 25, 2021
TIME: Saturday 10 - 6pm, Sunday 10 - 5pm
VENUE: Zem Zem Shriners Banquet & Conference Center (2525 W 38th St., Erie, PA)
COST: Adults $4, Seniors $3.50, Children under 12 FREE, Scouts in uniform FREE
HOST: Gem City ROCK and Mineral Society
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Dealers, door prizes, crystals, fossils, geodes, jewelry, beads, activities for children!
(Admission to the event will be based on Federal, State, Local and Conference Center recommendations and mandate for masks, social distancing and occupancy at the time of the show & sale)
French Creek Archaeological Society Artifact and Relic Show 2021
DATE: Saturday, July 31, 2021
TIME: 9 - 4pm
VENUE: St. Philip Catholic Church Social Hall (St. Philip Church 401 S. Mercer Street Linesville, PA 16424)
COST: $4.00 per person. PLEASE BRING EXACT CHANGE. Children 12 & under are FREE.
EVENT CATEGORY: SHOW
CONTACT: John Sites (814-398-8212)
MASKS MAY BE REQUIRED.
The number of people could be restricted and social distancing may be required.
Displays & Items for Sale: Indian Artifacts, Fossils, Minerals, Jewelry, Display Case & Flint Knapping Supplies. You never know what you may find or see!
Demonstrations: Flint Knapping & Spear Throwing
Bring your artifacts & fossils in for identification!
March 2021
Buffalo Geological Society's 52nd Annual Gem-Mineral-Fossil Show: "Fossils of New York" CANCELLED
DATE: Saturday March 20, 2021 @ 10am - 6pm, and Sunday March 21 @ 10am - 5pm
VENUE: The Fairgrounds in the Grange, Market and New York State Police Buildings (5600 McKinley Pkwy Hamburg, NY 14075)
COST: $6.00
ORGANIZER: Buffalo Geological Society
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
A great educational experience
• Educational Displays
• Lapidary Arts
• Fossils
• Minerals
• Private Gem Collections
• Unique Gifts
Free Parking
Free Admission for Children 12 and Under
Free Admission for Scouts (and Leaders) in Uniform
October 2020
Rochester Gem and Mineral Show CANCELLED
DATE: October 24, 2020 @ 10:00am - October 25, 2020 @ 5:00pm
VENUE: Total Sports Experience (435 West Commercial St, East Rochester, NY 14445)
COST: $6.00
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Saturday October 24, 2020 from 10am to 6pm
Sunday October 25, 2020 from 10am to 5pm
2020 Rochester Gem, Mineral, Jewelry and Fossil Show & Sale
At our NEW Location: Total Sports Experience
Kids Activities, Educational Displays, Demonstrations, Raffle, Beads, Crystals, Fossils, Minerals, Jewelry, Carvings, Spheres, Straw Draw, Hourly Door Prizes, & Much More!
Admission $6 for Adults, Kids 12 & Under free with an Adult.
Students receive a half price daily admission with valid student ID.
There is also a 2-day pass available for $9.00.
Tickets sold at the door only.
August 2020
Artifact & Relic Show CANCELLED
DATE: Saturday, August 1 2020 @ 9:00am - 4:00pm
VENUE: St. Philip Catholic Church Social Hall (401 S. Mercer Street Linesville, PA 16424)
COST: $4.00 (Children 12 and under free)
PHONE: John Sites 814-398-8212
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
MASKS REQUIRED FOR ENTRY. NO MASK, NO ENTRY
Artifact & Relic Show 2020 Presented by the French Creek Archaeological Society
DISPLAYS & ITEMS FOR SALE: Indian artifacts, fossils, minerals, jewelry, display cases & flint knapping supplies. You never know what you may find or see!
Masks are required at all times. For safety reasons, a limited number of people will be allowed in the hall at any given time. Please maintain social distancing.
DEMONSTRATIONS: Flint knapping & spear throwing
Bring your artifacts and fossils in for identification!
For more information, call John Sites at 814-398-8212
Letchworth Artifacts Show CANCELLED
DATE: August 2020
VENUE: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427
COST: Free
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Stone Tool Craftsman Show 2020/30th Annual Gathering of the Genesee Valley Flintknappers
Letchworth State Park - Highbanks Recreation Area
FLINTKNAPPING EVENTS:
-Flintknapping demonstrations under the knappers tent and throughout the event site
-Sales and personal displays of knapping by various artists
-Award ceremony
LIVING HISTORY ENCAMPMENTS:
-Walk through the camps and visit with the re-enactors
-Purchase period items from trade blankets
-See black powder firearm demonstrations
ATLATL COMPETITIONS:
-Eastern Seaboard Atlatl Competition,
-New York Atlatl Association (NYAA) Contests,
-Toss Across the Gorge Qualifiers, Silhouette Shoot
-Mammoth Hunt and Atlatl Battle
May 2020
Buffalo Geological Society Annual Show CANCELLED
Due to the statewide-ban on large-scale gatherings to suppress the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, our 2020 show has been CANCELLED
DATE: May 16 @ 10:00am - May 17 @ 5:00pm
VENUE: The Fairgrounds (5600 McKinley Pkwy Hamburg, NY 14075)
COST: $6.00
ORGANIZER: Buffalo Geological Society
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
A great educational experience
• Educational Displays
• Lapidary Arts
• Fossils
• Minerals
• Private Gem Collections
• Unique Gifts
Free Parking
Free Admission for Children 12 and Under
Free Admission for Scouts (and Leaders) in Uniform
April 2020
Due to the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, the Pre-MAPS and MAPS Shows are CANCELLED
Pre-MAPS (Mid America Paleontology Society) Show CANCELLED
Jump Start Hotel Show
DATE: April 15 @ 8:00am - April 19 @ 8:00pm
VENUE: Clarion Hotel (2525 N Dodge St. 1-80, Exit 246 Iowa City, IA)
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
-- Free Admission and Parking!
3 Day Jump-Start Show officially opens Wednesday April 15th at 8 AM
The main focus is on fossils, gems and minerals, meteorites, novelty items and jewelry.
MAPS (Mid-America Paleontological Society) Show CANCELLED
Due to the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, this 2020 show has been CANCELLED
DATE: April 17 @ 8:00am - April 19 @ 5:00pm
VENUE: Sharpless Auctions Facility (5049 Herbert Hoover Hwy, NE, I-80 Exit 249 Iowa City, Iowa)
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
This is the worlds largest fossils only event!
BUY, SELL, SWAP & DISPLAY
OF FOSSILS EXCLUSIVELY
INCLUDING: Trilobites, Crinoids, Corals,
Shark Teeth, Cephalopods, Plant Fossils,
Vertebrates, Dinosaur Eggs, Fossil Shells,
Books, and Other Fossil-Related
Merchandise
Children’s Activities, Silent Auctions,
Programs/Workshops
Watch for a list of speakers coming soon!
February 2020
Albany Gem Mineral and Fossil Show and Sale - Annual James Campbell Memorial
DATE: February 22 @ 10:00am - February 23 @ 5:00pm
VENUE: New York State Museum (222 Madison Ave Albany, NY 12230)
COST: $5.00
WEBSITE: http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/programs/minerals/
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
The Annual James Campbell Memorial Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show and Sale will take place on Saturday and Sunday, February 22, 2020 (10 am – 5 pm), and Sunday, February 23th, 10-5.
Vendors display and sell gems, jewelry, minerals, fossils, and much more.
Admission:
$5 each day. Children 12 and under are free.
**Cash Only**
Co-sponsored by the Capital District Mineral Club and the New York Academy of Mineralogy. All proceeds benefit the Museum’s mineral acquisition fund.
January 2020
Lumagination
DATE: January 25 @ 6:00pm - February 29 @ 10:00pm
VENUE: Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens (2655 South Park Ave Buffalo, NY 14218)
COST: $15.50
WEBSITE: https://www.buffalogardens.com/products/lumagination
Past & Present was generously selected to loan fossils and minerals to display in two rooms of the Buffalo Botanical Gardens for Lumagination!
Mysterious Minerals – The interior of the Botanical Gardens will be illuminated to excite imaginations, stimulate the senses and entertain all ages! This year, visitors will experience the extraordinary facets of Earth and minerals. From simulated salt caves and stalactites to wooden sculptures, balancing stones, geodes and crystals, Lumagination will take visitors on a journey like no other!
January 24 – Launch Party – Tickets sold separately
January 25-26, January 29-February 1
February 5-9, 12-22, 26-29
6-9pm / 6-10pm Friday and Saturday
Doors open at 5:30pm.
Please note that Lumagination is best experienced after the sun sets.
Tickets:
General Admission / Garden Member Pricing
Adults $15.50 / $13.50
Seniors (62+) $14 / $12
Students (with ID) $14 / $12
Kids (3-12) $7 / $7
Kids 2 and under are free
Please email tickets@buffalogardens.com or call 716.827.1584 ext. 211 with questions.
November 2019
DinoFEST
DATE: November 9, 2019
TIME: 10:00am - 4:00pm
VENUE: Buffalo Museum of Science (1020 Humboldt Pkwy Buffalo, NY 14211)
PHONE: (716) 896-5200
The Buffalo Museum of Science is again hosting this years DinoFEST. This event is featured for everyone and includes many guest exhibitors. Be sure to visit our table at this years event on Saturday, November 9th (10am to 4pm).
October 2019
Earth Science Day
DATE: October 5, 2019
TIME: 9:00am - 4:00pm
VENUE: Penn Dixie Site
Earth Science Day. Join us for science and nature fun from 9 am to 4 pm, rain or shine at the Penn Dixie Site. Lloyds Taco Truck will be there for food during this all day event.
Rochester Gem and Mineral Show
DATE: October 26, 2019 @ 10:00am - October 27, 2019 @ 5:00pm
VENUE: Total Sports Experience (435 West Commercial St, East Rochester, NY 14445)
COST: $6.00
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Saturday October 26, 2019 from 10am to 6pm
Sunday October 27, 2019 from 10am to 5pm
2019 Rochester Gem, Mineral, Jewelry and Fossil Show & Sale
At our NEW Location: Total Sports Experience
Kids Activities, Educational Displays, Demonstrations, Raffle, Beads, Crystals, Fossils, Minerals, Jewelry, Carvings, Spheres, Straw Draw, Hourly Door Prizes, & Much More!
Admission $6 for Adults, Kids 12 & Under free with an Adult.
Students receive a half price daily admission with valid student ID.
There is also a 2-day pass available for $9.00.
Tickets sold at the door only.
August 2019
Letchworth Artifacts Show
DATE: August 23, 2019 - August 25, 2019
VENUE: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427
COST: Free
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
Stone Tool Craftsman Show 2019/29th Annual Gathering of the Genesee Valley Flintknappers
Letchworth State Park - Highbanks Recreation Area
Friday, August 23rd - August 25th
10:00am - 5:00pm (Friday & Saturday) 10:00am - 2:00pm (Sunday)
FLINTKNAPPING EVENTS:
-Flintknapping demonstrations under the knappers tent and throughout the event site
-Sales and personal displays of knapping by various artists
-Award ceremony – Sunday at 11:00 AM
LIVING HISTORY ENCAMPMENTS:
-Walk through the camps and visit with the re-enactors
-Purchase period items from trade blankets
-See black powder firearm demonstrations
ATLATL COMPETITIONS: August 23rd, 24th, & 25th
-Eastern Seaboard Atlatl Competition,
-New York Atlatl Association (NYAA) Contests,
-Toss Across the Gorge Qualifiers, Silhouette Shoot
-Mammoth Hunt and Atlatl Battle
November 2018
DinoFEST at the Buffalo Museum of Science
DATE: November 9, 2018 @5:30pm - November 10, 2018 @ 4:00pm
VENUE: Buffalo Museum of Science (1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14211)
PHONE: (716) 896-5200
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
A family day event at the Buffalo Museum of Science featuring special exhibits on dinosaurs and much more!
September 2018
Fall Harvest Festival
DATE: September 29, 2018
TIME: 1:00pm - 4:00pm
VENUE: Bassett Park on the corner of Youngs and Klein Road in Williamsville, NY
Come see us at this outdoor event on Saturday September 29th. We are looking forward to the Fall Harvest Festival, with many dealers and great exhibits to view. We will be set up for this outdoor show in Bassett Park on the Corner of Youngs and Klein Road.
August 2018
Dinosaurs, Fossils & Nature Science Summer Day Camp
DATE: August 15, 2018
TIME: 9:00am - 3:00pm
COST: $200
EVENT CATEGORY: Camp
Pre-registration is required for this special event. We will be studying fossils from all over the world, including how they form, where they come from, and other important and fun information. This program is a special day, and is only one of a week of special activities performed with Penn Dixie.
July 2018
Dinosaurs, Fossils & Nature Science Summer Day Camp
DATE: July 18, 2018
TIME: 9:00am - 3:00pm
COST: $200
EVENT CATEGORY: Camp
Pre-registration is required for this special event. We will be studying fossils from all over the world, including how they form, where they come from, and other important and fun information. This program is a special day, and is only one of a week of special activities performed with Penn Dixie.
June 2018
Great Lakes Experience
DATE: June 9, 2018
TIME: 11:00am - 5:00pm
COST: Free
Venue: Memorial Park (Lake Shore Dr West, Dunkirk, NY)
November 2017
Dino Daze
DATE: November 11, 2017 - November 12, 2017
TIME: 10:00am - 4:00pm
VENUE: Buffalo Museum of Science (1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14211)
PHONE: (716) 896-5200
Come and join us for Dino Daze at the Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo, New York. It will be held from 10 am-4 pm on Saturday November 11th, and Sunday November 12th. This show features costumed dinosaurs, Paleontologist activities, a dino dig pit, and much more. See us and other wonderful special exhibits at this great event.
June 2017
Book Sale!
DATE: June 22, 2017 - June 24, 2017
TIME: 10:00 am - 5:00pm
VENUE: Past & Present
On Thursday, June 22, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, Past & Present Science and Nature Store is having a book sale on many of its books, new and used. Many are classic books from the 1800’s, and many are out of print additions. Many books are out for the first time, and are on a first come, first served basis. They include all of our New York State publications. Most books are non-fiction reference books, and books for pre school through adult readers.
October 2015
18th Annual WNY Earth Science Day
DATE: October 10, 2015
TIME: 9:00am - 4:00pm
WEBSITE: http://www.penndixie.org/
ORGANIZER: Penn Dixie
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
National Earth Science Day WNY celebration at Penn Dixie co-sponsored with the Buffalo Association of
Professional Geologists.
Talk to earth scientists as they exhibit and demonstrate various aspects of their professions; see a drill rig demonstrating rock coring and drilling operations; view sunspots; collect fossils; and participate in a wide variety of other activities.
Girl and boy scouts can earn badge requirements.
June 2015
Children's Day
DATE: June 7, 2015
TIME: 1:00pm - 4:00pm
VENUE: Penn Dixie Site (4050 North St, Blasdell, NY 14219)
COST: $7.00
WEBSITE: http://www.penndixie.org/
PHONE: (716) 627-4560
EVENT CATEGORY: Camp
Celebrate Childrenʼs Day at Penn Dixie!
Special fun events for children and their families, prizes for childrenʼs contests, viewing sunspots and other astronomy activities, fossil identification, and more!
Adults $7 each
Children 12 and under $6
Children 2 and under & Penn Dixie members FREE.
October 2014
Rochester Gem & Mineral Show
DATE: October 25, 2014 @ 8:00am - October 26, 2014 @ 5:00pm
VENUE: Rochester Main Street Armory (900 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14605)
WEBSITE: http://www.rochesterlapidary.org/
ORGANIZER: Rochester Lapidary Society
EVENT CATEGORY: Show
42nd Annual Rochester Gem, Mineral, Jewelry & Fossil Show and Sale!
It will be at the same location as last year: The Rochester Main Street Armory
August 2014
Dinosaurs, Fossils & Nature Science Summer Day Camp
DATE: August 13, 2014
TIME: 9:00am - 3:00pm
EVENT CATEGORY: Camp