A Museum-Wide Celebration of Scales, Slime, and Science
Have you heard about RAAW: Reptile And Amphibian Weekend at the Virginia Living Museum? Whether you are planning a family day out, you love all things herpetology, or you are a little unsure about snakes, this guide will help you make the most of RAAW.
What Is RAAW?
Reptile And Amphibian Weekend is a two-day, museum-wide event celebrating herpetology, or all things reptile and amphibian. On Saturday, March 21st and Sunday, March 22nd at the Museum, you will find educational displays, hands-on activities, live animal programs, games, face painting, and puppet shows.
Community partners join us to share why reptiles and amphibians matter, how to help injured wildlife, and how to become a responsible pet owner. Best of all, RAAW is included with regular Virginia Living Museum admission.
Quick Tips for Enjoying RAAW
- When: Saturday March 21st & Sunday 22nd
- Peak activity hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Visit early or later in the afternoon for a quieter experience. - Event hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Take a photo of the daily schedule when you arrive
- Live animal encounters are clearly labeled and always optional
- All activities, except behind-the-scenes tours, are included with admission
- Expect to move around. This is a museum-wide event
Loaded With Educational Family Fun
RAAW is packed with family-friendly activities for all ages, including:
- Community partners sharing information about native wildlife
- Live exotic animals brought to VLM by Reptile Education of Virginia (REV)
- Puppet shows by Rainbow Puppets Productions
- Face painting by Artfully Yours Face Painting
- Live reptile and amphibian programs
- Public feedings and keeper talks
- Reptile- and amphibian-themed games, activities, and sensory stations
Fun for Adults Too
RAAW is not just for kids. Adults and herp enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy throughout the weekend.
- An adult-only (18+) seminar featuring a herpetology-related speaker
Registration required. More details coming soon. - Local college students are invited to present reptile and amphibian research during a mini poster session before and after the seminar.
Throughout RAAW, adults can also explore:
- Poster displays featuring local herp research and natural history observations
- Booths hosted by the Virginia Herpetological Society, Peninsula Master Naturalists, wildlife rehabilitators, local parks, nature centers, and museums
- Live exotic animals from REV, with opportunities to learn about conservation and even adoption
- Information on joining one of VLM’s three annual reptile conservation programs: FrogWatch USA, Turtle Census, or Salamander Survey
- Behind-the-Scenes tours of the Ectotherms Department, offering insight into animal care careers and zoo science
What If I Don’t Like Reptiles?
You are not alone. We know reptiles and amphibians can make some visitors uncomfortable, and that is okay. RAAW is designed to be a safe, respectful, and optional experience.
There are no surprises. All animals and activities are clearly labeled, and animals available for touching are located in one secure area on the lower-level classrooms. Visitors can choose between interacting with live animals or exploring replicas and educational displays based on their comfort level.
RAAW offers a welcoming opportunity to learn about these often-misunderstood animals at your own pace. Reptiles and amphibians are intelligent, charismatic, and essential to healthy ecosystems, and we hope this weekend helps change how you see them.
“I’m more of a bird and mammal person and never made a point to go, but one year I went with out-of-town guests and it was awesome. For people who think they aren’t interested in scaly and slimy things, they absolutely will be after they go. It’s too cool to miss.”
— VLM Administrative Staff Member and Former Keeper
RAAW Is Perfect For…
- Families with young children
- Teens interested in animals or science
- College students and adult wildlife enthusiasts
- Curious visitors looking to challenge their fears
- Anyone who enjoys learning through hands-on experiences
Be sure to check the Virginia Living Museum website for exhibitor announcements and full schedules as the event approaches. Do not miss RAAW 2026.
