You can take a step back in time to explore the world of crocodilians at this year’s Alabama Fossil Fest on Saturday, September 20, from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Smith Hall. The free event is hosted by the Alabama Museum of Natural History and the University of Alabama Museums Department of Museum Research and Collections.

Now in its 13th year, the museum's annual fossil-themed celebration has taken on a new name. Formerly known as National Fossil Day, it has been rebranded this year as Alabama Fossil Fest.

For 2025, the spotlight will be placed on the crocodilians, while still showcasing a wide variety of other fascinating fossils.

According to the press release, “the free event suitable for all ages will feature hands-on learning spanning 500 million years of Alabama’s past, a new exhibit unveiling, exciting talks by Drs. Ron Buta and David Schwimmer, and the presentation of the Alabama Avocational Paleontologist Award.”

“This year, we’ve put together yet another very exciting and varied event,” said Dr. Adiel Klompmaker, curator of paleontology with the department of museum research and collections.

“There are three great presentations, such as a keynote talk about fossil crocodilians, the unveiling of a brand-new exhibit of a big prehistoric predator, and our annual tabling event with tons of fossils. If you like biology, geology, and/or paleontology, you do not want to miss this largest fossil event of the year in Alabama.”

Alabama Fossil Fest Highlights

Visitors can expect to see tables hosted by the Birmingham Paleontological Society, the Alabama Paleontological Society, and other organizations and individuals. “One free fossil will be available per person at the tables of the UA Department of Museum Research and Collections,” said the press release.

1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Tabling Event (Grand Gallery)

2:00 p.m.

New Exhibit Unveiling (Grand Gallery)

3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Presentations

Back-to-back in Smith Hall Room 205 next to the Grand Gallery. Note that the Grand Gallery will be closed from 3:00 p.m. onwards.

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“We have something for learners and explorers of all ages – presentations, hands-on opportunities with fossils from collections from around the state, and educational programming that’ll get even the adults saying, ‘Crickey, this is cool,’” said Kristin Harrell, education outreach coordinator at the Alabama Museum of Natural History.

For more information, visit the Alabama Museum of Natural History website.

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