The 2026 Fossil Fair at Schiele Museum will be an ultimate opportunity to travel back in time
- Schiele Museum
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
If you have a dinosaur fan, rock hound, or curious explorer in your family, Fossil Fair at The Schiele Museum of Natural History is the perfect reason to plan a winter getaway to Gastonia. This one-day event turns an already exceptional museum into a full-scale prehistoric adventure—complete with fossils, living animals, expert talks, and hands-on experiences you won’t find just anywhere.
2026 Fossil Fair at Schiele Museum of Natural History
The annual Fossil Fair will take place on Saturday, February 28nth, from 9:00 to 5:00 PM and offers a full day of immersive fun that makes the drive to Gaston County well worth it.
A One-Day Event Packed with Prehistoric Experiences
From the moment you arrive, Fossil Fair invites visitors to dig into the ancient past—literally. Kids and adults alike can break apart rocks in search of fossils, mine for gemstones, and try their hand at a mini fossil dig. Bring your own fossils, rocks, or minerals and get expert insight into what you’ve found.
Throughout the day, guests can:
Meet real paleontologists and geologists
Interact with live animals often called “living fossils”
Shop for fossils, geodes, jewelry, and unique science-themed gifts
Explore fossil specimens and casts inside the Dino Safari exhibit
Enjoy hands-on activities designed for all ages
It’s a rare chance to experience science in action—up close, interactive, and fun.
Learn From the Experts
Fossil Fair also features special presentations designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding of the prehistoric world.
At Digging Deep: A Paleontology Roundtable (11:00 AM and 2:00 PM), paleontologists from The Schiele and Appalachian State University explore dinosaur discoveries and answer audience questions.
During Ocean Fossils (9:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 3:30 PM), Dr. Ashley Oliphant uncovers the hidden stories behind ancient shells and shark teeth.
Have a fossil question? This is your chance to Ask an Expert and learn from professionals who study these discoveries for a living.
A Planetarium Show You Can’t See Anywhere Else
Fossil Fair admission includes access to an exclusive planetarium show, Jurassic Flaws, playing every 30 minutes throughout the day.
Inspired by the cultural impact of Jurassic Park, this show dives into what the movie got right—and where Hollywood took creative liberties. It’s educational, entertaining, and a must-see for dinosaur fans of all ages.
Fuel Your Adventure
When hunger strikes, grab lunch, snacks, or drinks from on-site vendors like Crossroads Culinary and Black Sheep Coffee, making it easy to stay fueled for a full day of exploration.
Why Travel to Gaston County for Fossil Fair?
Fossil Fair isn’t just an event—it’s a full museum experience bundled into one ticket. Admission includes:
Museum access
Planetarium show
Gemstone mining
Fossil dig
All Fossil Fair activities
That’s a $25 value packed into a single day, making it an affordable and memorable trip for families and weekend travelers.
And while you’re here, The Schiele Museum of Natural History itself is worth the visit. Known throughout the region for its engaging exhibits, planetarium, and outdoor nature trail, The Schiele consistently ranks as one of North Carolina’s top family-friendly museums.
Ticket Information
Advance Tickets
$6 Museum Members
$18 General Public
Day-of Event Tickets
$8 Museum Members
$20 General Public
Tickets available soon.
Parking tip: If the main lot is full, head to the overflow parking area. A second admissions desk at the museum’s lower entrance will help reduce wait times and walking distance.
The Schiele Museum of Natural History inspires wonder, curiosity, and an appreciation of the natural world, providing the region with a unique educational resource. Visitors to The Schiele learn about the world around them through exceptional programming, fascinating exhibits, and ongoing research. To find out more, visit SchieleMuseum.org or follow The Schiele on social media. SchieleMuseum.org
