The Lubbock Aquarium is set to expand its educational offerings with a brand‑new Birds & Butterfly Exhibit, scheduled to open on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. The exhibit marks Phase 2 of the aquarium’s Discovery Trail, a multi‑year effort to give visitors more ways to learn about the natural world beyond the water.
Ribbon‑cutting ceremony honors longtime public servant
The dedication ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. at the aquarium’s 5116 29th Drive location. Congressman Jodey Arrington, who has served West Texas for more than a decade, will be honored for his contributions to the region. Arrington is among the invited participants for the ribbon‑cutting, which will also include aquarium leadership, community partners, sponsors, and local residents.
What families can expect
The Birds & Butterfly Exhibit will showcase a variety of native and exotic avian species alongside a colorful collection of butterflies. Designed as an interactive learning space, the exhibit offers hands‑on displays, informational signage, and opportunities for children to observe the life cycles of these flying creatures. In a region where residents often contend with swatting flies and mosquitoes, the new exhibit provides a chance to appreciate the beauty of winged wildlife in a controlled, family‑friendly environment.
Community partners support the project
Local businesses have stepped forward as ribbon‑cutting sponsors, helping to fund the celebration and the exhibit itself. Sponsors include OfficeMax, Condray Design Group, Razonia McClellan Public Relations, and MWM Architects. Their support underscores the collaborative spirit that has driven the aquarium’s growth and reflects a broader commitment to enriching cultural and educational resources in Lubbock.
Why the exhibit matters for Lubbock
Beyond providing a new attraction, the Birds & Butterfly Exhibit aligns with the aquarium’s mission to foster curiosity about the natural world. By expanding the Discovery Trail, the aquarium offers additional programming for school groups, youth organizations, and families seeking wholesome, educational outings. The exhibit also creates new volunteer and internship opportunities for local students interested in wildlife conservation and museum studies.
Plan your visit
Admission to the aquarium includes access to the new exhibit. Visitors are encouraged to check the aquarium’s website, LubbockTXAquarium.org, for the latest hours, ticket information, and any special programming tied to the opening. The event is free to the public, and community members are welcome to attend the ribbon‑cutting ceremony.
With the Birds & Butterfly Exhibit, the Lubbock Aquarium continues to strengthen its role as a cornerstone of family‑friendly education in West Texas, offering residents a fresh way to explore the wonders of nature above the water’s surface.
Original reporting: News/Talk 790 KFYO (Lubbock) — read the source article.
