Let's explore the wonders of the cosmos by starting with one of our favorite critters the bat. Are bats only awake at night? Does the moon help bats find their way at night? How do bats avoid crashing into each other in the dark? Your answers might await you at Bat Fest!

Join us for another year of appreciating bats and the habitats they share with our plants and pollinators. Meet the bats through live animal encounters, participate in arts & crafts, attend science workshops, talks, and demonstrations, meet scientists and learn hands-on how they research bats in the field, and enjoy the outdoor hiking, canoeing, and games around the property. There isn't an experience quite like this anywhere else—and it's for the whole family! Fall in love with the “stars” of our center as you dive into the world of bats. We can't wait to explore with you!

Note: Our festival hours for Bat Fest are at a different time than our regular admission days or other festivals. This allows us to survey with scientists for live bats around the property during the evening so guests can participate! Please plan around our Bat Fest times on Sept 21st to attend. Our regular admission hours will be used as preparation. We look forward to seeing you!

This is a community effort in partnership with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and more. Proceeds from this event help Bear Creek Nature Center continue its mission to spread the joy of nature and the outdoor world through our environmental education and conservation efforts.

Admission includes access to all talks, activities, and trail access. Additional funds may be used to purchase gift shop items or donate to partner organizations. Food will be sold separately through local food trucks.