ECOTARIUM CELEBRATES 200TH ANNIVERSARY WITH HISTORIC COMMUNITY BIRTHDAY BASH
Among the many families attending EcoTarium’s 200th birthday party Saturday, July 19, 2025, was Worcester resident Andrew Tsang, who brought his two children to celebrate.
“The Ecotarium is such a gift to our city,” he said as he held his 6-month-old daughter. “Seeing my kids’ excitement as they experience the animals or look through a telescope—it’s a full-circle moment.”
Nearly 3,000 visitors gathered on the scenic 55-acre campus of the EcoTarium on Harrington Way to commemorate a milestone. The daylong celebration—held on the 200th day of the Museum’s 200th year—brought together families, elected officials, volunteers, partner organizations, and supporters from across Central Massachusetts and beyond to honor the EcoTarium’s enduring legacy and exciting future.
The centerpiece of the celebration was a noontime speaking program at Sundial Plaza, where museum leaders and dignitaries reflected on the EcoTarium’s history as a regional leader in science, nature, and STEM education. Guests enjoyed science demonstrations, nature walks, a ceremonial “Big Candle Blowout,” and food truck delights, while participating in more than 127 educational programs and interactive activities hosted by over 60 partner organizations from across the region.
U.S. Congressman James McGovern praised the Museum’s leadership in STEM education and noted the significance of recent federal investments in its space science initiatives. These include the Lift Off! Space Explorers exhibit, upgrades to the planetarium, and observatory improvements, all made possible through funding supported by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Edward J. Markey and Congressman McGovern.
“Worcester has always paved the path toward accessible, community-minded scientific education,” said McGovern. “Now 200 years later, the EcoTarium is a world-renowned, state-of-the-art education center. With today’s celebration, the Museum continues its legacy of engaging the masses in scientific discovery.”
EcoTarium President and CEO Noreen Johnson Smith reflected on the institution’s grassroots origins and its future.
“Our next 200 years begin today,” she said. “The Museum was grown and sustained by generations of Worcester residents. We are not a franchise or national association—we are homegrown. Our goal is to be a source of pride for Worcester and to maintain this institution as the world-class organization it deserves to be.”
State Sen. Michael Moore highlighted his efforts to secure state funding for the EcoTarium’s traveling education programs and its wildlife zoo.
“Other parts of the state may have a museum,” Moore said. “But we are lucky here in Worcester to have a zoo, science center, and museum all in one. It’s a world-class institution that brings science to life for people of all ages.”
Deputy Director of Museum Operations Katie Chappell thanked event sponsors—including Flexcon, Central One Federal Credit Union, Polar Beverages, Middlesex Savings Bank, the WooSox Foundation, and Discover Central Mass—for their critical support of the Museum and the day’s festivities.
“On behalf of the EcoTarium, I’m thrilled to welcome you to this very special day as we celebrate 200 years of curiosity, discovery, and connection with the natural world,” said Chappell. “This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the support of our sponsors and partners. Your investment helps us serve thousands of children and families each year—and ensures our next 200 years are just as impactful.”
Board Chair Joseph Bartulis emphasized the Museum’s evolution and its unique role in the region.
“Two hundred years ago, this institution was founded with a vision to connect people with science and nature,” he said. “This anniversary is not just a celebration of our past, but a powerful moment to look forward—to what we can continue to do together for our community, our environment, and our future.”
City Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson presented ceremonial keys to the City of Worcester to Johnson Smith and other Museum leaders and announced Mayor Joseph Petty’s declaration of July 19 as “EcoTarium Day.” Worcester Youth Poet Laureate Serenity Jackson followed with an original poem celebrating the Museum’s influence on local youth and families.
The formal program concluded with a crowd-pleasing science demonstration led by Brendan Cole, the EcoTarium’s Manager of Museum Education. Visitors then continued to explore the grounds and exhibits throughout the afternoon.
Parent and EcoTarium member Brie Goldberg of Worcester brought her two daughters to the celebration.
“My daughters love the outdoor area and interactive features,” she said, pondering, “I wonder what the Museum looked like 200 years ago.”