Telford Fossil Festival Returns to Exotic Zoo with Dinosaur Reveal and Expert Talks
Exotic Zoo has officially announced that it will host the highly anticipated Telford Fossil Festival this June, bringing together fossil enthusiasts and families for a weekend of prehistoric exploration. The event, scheduled for June 6 and 7, will showcase the Telford Natural History Museum, which is an integral part of the zoo, and feature a lineup of renowned experts in paleontology and natural history art.
Star-Studded Lineup and New Dinosaur Unveiling
The festival has secured acclaimed paleontologist, author, and television presenter Dr Dean Lomax, alongside world-renowned natural history artist Bob Nicholls. These experts will lead engaging sessions, including a talk titled The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs on Saturday, June 6, followed by a Q&A and book signing opportunity. Attendees can book spots for these exclusive events when purchasing their tickets.
Curated by Tom Moncrieffe, the museum's first full-time paleontologist hired last year, the festival aims to attract fossil lovers and paleontology fans from across the United Kingdom. A major highlight will be the reveal of a new Jurassic dinosaur, which will be permanently housed at the museum. This unveiling is designed to draw attention to the museum's offerings and its new public fossil preparation laboratory, providing visitors with a rare glimpse into real fossil work and museum science.
Interactive Activities and Unique Exhibits
Scott Adams, managing director at Exotic Zoo, emphasized that the weekend will feature a diverse range of activities for all ages. The zoo will host fossil and paleoart vendors, hands-on workshops, and stalls selling dinosaur-themed art, models, books, and gifts. Fossil experts will be on hand to give talks and offer fossils for sale, enhancing the educational experience.
Visitors will have the opportunity to view the museum's collection of real skeletons, including a recent addition: a 32-million-year-old genuine Oligocene rhinoceros skull discovered in the fossil beds of the Badlands of Nebraska, USA. Adding to the festive atmosphere, a Jurassic Park jeep will be parked at the zoo, creating a fun and immersive environment for families.
Ticket Information and Festival Details
Tickets for the Telford Fossil Festival are priced at £12 for adults and £10 for children aged two to 15, with free entry for children under two. Each ticket includes two-day zoo entry, allowing attendees to explore the zoo, museum, stalls, and activities throughout the weekend. The festival promises to be a family-friendly celebration of prehistoric life, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Tom Moncrieffe described the event as an ideal opportunity for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts to deepen their passion for Earth's history. With expert insights, fossil fun, and unforgettable experiences, the Telford Fossil Festival is set to become a must-visit event in the heart of Telford, Shropshire.
