Butterfly Releases

There's something magical about holding a delicate butterfly in your palm and watching it take flight into a canopy of greenery and blooms. The Purdy Butterfly House at Huntsville Botanical Garden offers families that exact experience through their Butterfly Release program, where children and adults alike can help restore the indoor butterfly population while learning about these remarkable pollinators. Each 30-minute program begins with a brief educational presentation about butterflies and their habitat before participants gently release live butterflies into the glass-enclosed conservatory. It's an experience that combines hands-on learning with wonder, particularly engaging for children ages 3-15 who are naturally curious about the natural world. This particular release takes place Saturday, June 13 at 11:00 a.m. at the Purdy Butterfly House on the Botanical Garden grounds. Pricing varies: Garden members pay $8 per person (regardless of age), while non-members pay $27 for adults and $20 for children ages 3-15. Children two and under receive free Garden admission, though you'll need to purchase a release ticket if your toddler wants to participate. Registration is required since space is limited, so don't wait until the last minute to secure your spot. Bring your camera—these moments make for stunning photographs as butterflies land on shoulders and outstretched hands. The combination of natural lighting, tropical plants, and colorful wings creates photo opportunities you'll treasure. As a bonus, your participation supports the Garden's conservation work and educational mission, making this both a memorable family outing and a meaningful contribution to environmental stewardship in North Alabama.