Paleo Research Package

Schedule

Fri, 06 Mar, 2026 at 05:00 pm to Sun, 08 Mar, 2026 at 05:00 pm

UTC-06:00

Location

Burpee Museum of Natural History | Rockford, IL

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Enjoy a full weekend of research lectures from top paleontologists + Keynote talk and dinner. Includes museum admission.
About this Event

Experience all the science all weekend!

This ticket type includes:

  • Friday Night Talk (Member Night)
  • All Saturday Daytime Lectures
  • Saturday Night Keynote & Dinner
  • All Sunday Daytime Lectures


Why PaleoFest 2026?

Be Part of the Discovery!

PaleoFest is more than a weekend event; it’s where history comes alive! Hosted at the Burpee Museum of Natural History, this celebration brings world-renowned paleontologists to Rockford, IL, to share "breaking news" science. Whether you're a family of explorers or a dedicated researcher, PaleoFest brings the prehistoric world to you!

What’s Happening?

  • World-Class Talks: Hear directly from the researchers making headlines. All evening and weekend talks are tailored for a general audience—no scientific background required!
  • NEW for 2026! The Paleo Marketplace: Our biggest expansion yet! Shop a curated selection of vendors from across the country featuring fossils, minerals, books, and unique paleo-art. (Included with General Admission).
  • NEW for 2026! Student Poster Presentations: Experience the future of science as students present their own ongoing research. (Included with General Admission).
  • Pop-Up Exhibits & Games: Access exclusive "one-day-only" stations and interactive games throughout the museum’s exhibit halls.

Headlining Speakers & Special Events

  • Friday Honorary Member Kick-Off: Join Dr. James Napoli, lead author of the groundbreaking 2025 Nature paper on the reclassification of "Jane." Hear the inside story of how Nanotyrannus was officially recognized as a distinct species.
  • Saturday Keynote Dinner: Meet Dr. Jingmai O’Connor from the as she discusses the world-famous "Chicago Archaeopteryx" and the spectacular evolution of flight.

🔬 For Students & Research Enthusiasts

Deep dives into the science, including the landmark Nanotyrannus findings.

  • Paleo Research Package (1 Person): 3-Day Lecture Pass + Saturday Dinner/Keynote + Lanyard. Price: Member $140 | Non-Member $170
  • VIP Research Package (1 Person): Everything above PLUS Priority Dinner Seating + Swag Bag (Includes T-Shirt!). Price: Member $210 | Non-Member $260
  • The All-Day Lecture Pass: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday daytime lectures (excludes dinner). Price: Member $75 | Non-Member $95
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Where is it happening?

Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 North Main Street, Rockford, United States

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Tickets

USD 12.51 to USD 183.24

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Burpee Museum of Natural History

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