Families, fossil enthusiasts and history lovers are being invited to join the celebrations as Dinosaur Isle marks its 25th anniversary with a special “Birthday Blast from the Past” community event this autumn.
The popular Sandown museum will open its doors on Sunday (15th November), where it will offer visitors the chance to enjoy everything Dinosaur Isle has to offer for just £1 per person between 10:00 and 16:00.
The event revives the museum’s much-loved “Blast from the Past” days, which were once a regular fixture in the Island’s events calendar, with this year’s celebration taking on a special significance as Dinosaur Isle reaches a quarter-century milestone.
Visitors can look forward to a packed programme of activities, exhibitions and talks, with organisations from across the Isle of Wight and beyond coming together to showcase the Island’s rich natural, historical and cultural heritage.
Exhibitors confirmed for the day include Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Dinosaur Expedition Centre, Southampton Mineral & Fossil Society, Wight Coast Fossils, University of Southampton, South Wight Metal Detecting Club, Isle of Wight Bus & Coach Museum, Isle of Wight Steam Railway and the Isle of Wight Council Heritage Service, among others.
Guests will have the opportunity to get hands-on with real dinosaur bones and fossils, discover more about the Isle of Wight’s unique natural history and wildlife, enjoy family-friendly art activities, and hear special readings from the team behind the popular Dinosaur Roar! children’s book series.
Local children’s author Debbie Webb will also be joining the event, hosting book readings throughout the day.
David Button, curator of Dinosaur Isle, said:
“Dinosaur Isle has inspired and educated generations of residents and visitors over the past 25 years, helping to showcase the Isle of Wight’s internationally important fossil heritage.
“Our Birthday Blast from the Past event is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate that achievement while bringing together many of the organisations that help tell the story of our Island’s history, culture and natural environment.
“With £1 admission, hands-on activities, expert talks and attractions for all ages, we hope families from across the Isle of Wight will come along and join us for what promises to be a memorable day.”
For more information about Dinosaur Isle and the Birthday Blast from the Past event, visit the museum’s website or follow Dinosaur Isle on social media.
