Exhibitors · collectors · artists · presenters · volunteers

Exhibitor FAQ

Everything you need to know to take part in the St. Louis Prehistoric Life Show, Saturday, October 17, 2026. This page isn't part of the public site menu — feel free to share the link with your team.

This page is for people taking part in the show. If someone forwarded you this link and you have general questions as a visitor, head back to slpls.org.

Part one · for everyone

1. The basics

When and where is the show?

Saturday, October 17, 2026, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Saint Louis Science Center, 5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110. Check-in is on the main level. Everything else takes place on the lower level.

What time do doors open to the public?

9:30 am.

How much does it cost to exhibit?

There is no exhibitor fee.

How many people do you expect?

The Science Center estimates 2,500 or more.

Who is the audience?

Families, adults, avocational paleontologists, professionals, and general Science Center visitors.

Who else is exhibiting?

Organizations, collectors, and artists, across the Lower Level. See the full list of organizations.

Where will I be?

Organizations are in the Atrium. Fossil collections are in the T. Rex Room. Art is in the Dino Den. The Energy Stage is near the back stairs on the lower level. The Fossil Road Show and Mizzou's tables are in May Hall. See "Your space and role" below for the details that apply to you.

Who is organizing this?

The SLPLS volunteer planning committee. Learn more about the show.

Is the rest of the Science Center open that day?

Yes. It's a regular operating day. General admission is always free.

What does it cost visitors to park?

Visitor parking at the main building is $15, debit or credit only, and free for Science Center members. Parking near the Planetarium is free but requires a longer walk across the bridge. Exhibitor parking is handled separately — see Parking below.

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2. Before the day

What do you need from me, and by when?

Complete your exhibitor intake form by Monday, September 14. Jump to the intake forms.

How do I know if I am confirmed?

Jon, Asa, or Kristen will send you a confirmation email. If you're unsure, get in touch.

What if I need to cancel?

Let us know as soon as you can via the contact form.

Who do I contact with a question before the show?

Use the contact form.

3. Check-in, load-in, and load-out

Which entrance do I use to unload?

The employee entrance at the rear of the main building at 5050 Oakland. Enter through the gated parking area, past the security booth. This is the entrance for both Friday and Saturday load-in.

Can I load in on Friday, October 16?

Yes, and Friday is preferred. Friday load-in is open to all participants. Materials are held in a secure storage room overnight.

What are the Friday load-in hours?

Still being finalized, likely after 4:30 pm. We'll confirm the exact window as the date gets closer.

What are the Saturday morning load-in hours?

7:00–9:00 am. Science Center employees arrive at 9:00 am and have priority access from 9:00–9:30 am, so we need load-in wrapped up by 9:00 am.

Where do I pull my vehicle up?

Near the employee entrance. Let us know in advance and we'll help you unload.

How long can I leave my vehicle there?

Only long enough to unload — there's no room to leave vehicles near the employee entrance, and service and trash vehicles use the same area.

How far is the carry from the vehicle to my table?

A short walk, then a ramp or steps, then a hallway to the elevator, then a short walk to the tables.

Are there carts available, or should I bring my own?

Bring your own if possible.

Are there elevators, and how big are they?

There's only one cargo elevator, and it will be in heavy use. If you need multiple trips or have heavy material, please load in on Friday.

Can I leave my materials overnight Friday?

Yes — there's a secure storage room and the building is secured overnight.

Where and when do I check in?

Get set up first, then find the SLPLS table on the main level, at the top of the stairs near the main entrance, and say hello. We'll be moving around all morning, so if we find you first, that counts too.

What time do I need to be set up and ready?

By 9 am. Doors open to the public at 9:30 am.

What should I wear?

If you have a shirt representing your organization, please wear it. The Science Center recommends closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with non-slip soles.

When can I start breaking down?

At 4:30 pm on Saturday, when the public begins to leave.

What time does everything need to be out of the building?

5:30 pm. Security stays until we're finished, so we want to be quick.

Is load-out through the same door?

Yes, out through the employee entrance to the employee parking lot. The main entrance is not available for load-out.

4. Parking

Where do exhibitors park?

In the employee parking lot, through the gated security booth. You don't need a pass to enter the lot.

Do I need a parking pass?

Yes, but only to exit. The Science Center is providing a full-day pass — one per exhibitor, for one vehicle. We may not have them until the day of the event, in which case we'll hand them out during the show. You don't need it until you leave.

Where should my volunteers park?

Carpool with the primary exhibitor if possible — spots are limited and one pass per exhibitor is standard. If you need a second pass, ask well in advance via the contact form, though we can't guarantee extra passes. Additional vehicles may need to use the paid lot ($15) or free parking near the Planetarium.

Can I park close to unload, then move my vehicle?

Usually yes, briefly. The area is also used by service and trash vehicles, so we can't guarantee space. Ask us for help unloading so you can move your vehicle quickly.

Is there anywhere to park an oversized vehicle or trailer?

5. Power, wifi, and equipment

Is there power at my table?

Not unless you request it — tell us on your intake form.

Should I bring an extension cord or power strip?

Yes.

Is there wifi?

Yes. Login information will be provided.

Can I hang a banner or put up a backdrop?

Yes.

Is there a sign with my organization's name, or should I bring one?

Bring your own — we're not able to print signage this year.

Where can I put my bag or personal items?

Lockers are available to rent on the lower level of the Oakland building for small items. The Science Center doesn't hold large personal items, and unattended belongings are subject to removal by security.

6. What you can and cannot bring

Can I bring anything with a blade?

No.

Can I bring anything with an open flame or heat?

No.

Can I use aerosols, adhesives, or chemicals?

No.

Can I bring UV lights?

Yes, with safe use.

Can I bring a live animal?

No.

Can I hand out food or candy?

No.

Can I play audio or video at my table?

Limited audio and video is fine as long as it doesn't disrupt other areas.

Can I smoke or vape on a break?

No. Tobacco products and electronic smoking devices are prohibited anywhere on Science Center property, including buildings, grounds, restrooms, and parking lots.

Are weapons allowed?

No. Firearms and weapons are not allowed anywhere on Science Center property.

Can I bring water for washing or demonstrations?

Ask us in advance via the contact form.

Can I bring sand, gravel, or sediment?

Only in a designated area — ask us in advance via the contact form.

Can I bring hammers or chisels for demonstration?

Only in a designated area — ask us in advance via the contact form.

Is there anything else the Science Center prohibits?

All Science Center rules apply to our event. Please read the code of conduct and the visitor FAQs before the show.

7. Selling, donations, and signups

There are no sales at this event.

Can I sell things at my table?

No. Sales are strictly prohibited.

Can I take donations?

You can post signage with a URL or QR code for electronic donations.

Can I give things away?

Yes.

Can I sign up members?

Yes.

Can I hand out flyers, business cards, or brochures?

Yes. Bring plenty.

Can I promote a different event at my table?

Yes, promotions are allowed.

8. Your people

How many people can I have at my table?

No limit — bring the people you need. Keep in mind one parking pass per exhibitor is standard, so carpool where you can.

Do I get a badge?

Yes — we'll have lanyards or similar identification.

Can I swap volunteers during the day?

Yes, any time.

Do my volunteers need to be listed in advance?

Not required, but it helps if you send us names and contact info on your intake form.

Can minors help at my table?

Yes — children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Are SLPLS volunteers available if I need a hand?

Yes — find an organizer. We'll be stretched thin, so plan on about five minutes at a time.

Do I get a t-shirt?

We hope so — it depends on fundraising.

9. Food and breaks

Is lunch provided?

We hope so — it depends on fundraising.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes. The Science Center doesn't allow outside food in public areas, so we'll let you know where exhibitors can eat and when you can take a break.

Where can I buy food?

The Science Center has several dining locations, including Science Cafe, The Cup and Cone, The Loft, and Grow Grill, open during regular building hours. See dining options.

Is there water available?

Yes, at fountains and the cafes.

Who covers my table when I take a break?

Bring enough volunteers to cover breaks.

10. Specimens and security

Is my material insured?

Not by us or the Science Center — only if you insure it yourself.

Is the building secured overnight?

Yes.

Should I bring real specimens or casts?

Bring what you're comfortable displaying. Science Center visitors are used to touching things, so anything you don't want handled needs a case, distance, signage, or a friendly word of caution. Expect kids of all ages to reach out — please be kind with your language and tone for all seven hours.

What should I set out for handling versus display only?

If it's within reach, expect it to be handled. Don't set out anything breakable or valuable. Use your best judgment.

How do I keep hands off the display-only material?

Keep it in a locked case and keep an eye on it. Ask for help when you take restroom breaks.

What do I do if something goes missing?

Tell an organizer, but assume it's gone for good — with thousands of people in the building, recovery is unlikely. Our focus is loss prevention, not loss recovery.

Can I lock or cover my table when I step away?

No — covered tables get uncovered by curious visitors. Keep anything portable protected, and keep an adult at your table.

Should I photograph or inventory my material beforehand?

Yes, so you can recall what you set out.

11. Working the room

Who is walking up to my table?

Families, adults, scientists, and everyone in between.

What tends to work well with this crowd?

Put something in their hands — a touchable fossil does more work than any sign. Lead with one sentence, not five. Most people are moving, so give them the hook and let them ask for more. Have something for the youngest visitor and something for the geologist — they'll arrive one minute apart. Stand up; sitting behind a table reads as closed. Pace yourself — it's seven hours, and the last family gets the same welcome as the first.

What should I do when a line forms?

Do your best, and flag down an organizer if you need help.

How loud is it going to be?

Loud, and it varies through the day — you'll hear the animatronic T. rex roaring often.

Will anyone photograph or film my table?

Probably — personal photography is permitted throughout the Science Center. This is a public space.

What if the press wants to talk to me?

Talk to them as much or as little as you like.

What if a professional photographer or videographer wants to shoot my table?

Professional photography and video at the Science Center has to be cleared through their marketing team in advance. Send anyone making that request to an SLPLS organizer or a Science Center staff member.

What if someone asks me to appraise or buy their fossil?

No purchases are allowed at the event, and we ask that no monetary appraisals be made. You're welcome to direct people to the experts at the Fossil Road Show in May Hall, or to share contact info if you'd like to connect after the event.

What if someone asks where to go collecting?

You're under no obligation to share specific localities. You can direct persistent questions to any SLPLS organizer.

12. Building logistics

Where are the restrooms?

Marked on the venue map, available throughout the building and online.

Where is first aid?

Marked on the venue map, available online.

Are there elevators between levels?

Yes, marked on the venue map.

Is there a quiet space?

We're finalizing a quiet space for this year — ask any organizer on the day if you need a few minutes away from the floor.

Is there a nursing room?

Yes — the Science Center has a private comfort room on the lower level of the main building. Ask at the Information Desk in the lobby and a team member will assist you.

What is the lost child procedure?

Find a Science Center staff member immediately.

What do I do in an emergency?

Find a Science Center staff member.

What if a visitor loses something?

Send them to the Information Desk in the main building lobby, or to any Security Officer. The Science Center also has a lost and found line at 314.289.1463.

Where do I find an SLPLS organizer during the day?

Look for Jon, Asa, or Kristen in bright shirts, or call or text.

Is there a day-of phone number?

Yes — we'll send it to you directly before the show. It won't be posted on the website.

13. Promotion

Can I use the SLPLS logo and images?

Yes — save and upload them, or copy and paste the images from this website. Please attribute: © Patrick Weck.

What should I post, and when?

Post early, post often, post everywhere.

Is there a hashtag?

#slpls

Can I be listed on slpls.org?

Yes — if you're not on the website yet, let us know via the contact form.

Who handles press?

The volunteer committee — Jon, Asa, or Kristen.

Can I share the free ticket page?

Yes, no registration required. See the ticket page.

14. After the day

When do I need to be packed out?

By 5:30 pm on Saturday.

Is there a feedback survey?

Yes — we'll send it after the show.

Will photos be shared?

Yes, and please share yours too.

Can I get a count of attendance?

Yes, once the Science Center shares it.

Is there a thank-you or wrap-up?

We'll follow up after the show.

How do I sign up for next year?

Let us know you're interested via the contact form and we'll be in touch as soon as we have dates.

Part two · your space and role

Find your room or role below. Everything in part one applies to you too.

Organizations, in the Atrium

Where am I?

The Atrium, on the lower level.

How big is my table, and how many do I get?

Each organization receives one table. Standard tables are 8 feet — if you'd rather have a 6-foot table, request it on your intake form.

Is the table skirted, or should I bring a cloth?

Bring your own tablecloth — they're not provided in the Atrium.

Does SLPLS have display cases I can borrow?

No — cases aren't available for organizations. Bring your own if your display needs them.

Where do I store bins and empty boxes during the day?

Under your table if your tablecloth covers the front. Otherwise, we can store materials under the tables in the T. Rex Room.

Can I move my table or change its position?

No — the Science Center assigns the final layout and tables need to stay where they're placed. If there's a real problem, find an organizer and we'll work it out.

Fossil collections, in the T. Rex Room

Where am I?

The T. Rex Room, on the lower level. All fossil collections are in this room.

Is a tablecloth provided?

Yes — every table in the T. Rex Room gets one.

Will I have a showcase?

We hope to provide showcases in the T. Rex Room, but can't promise one. Please plan on bringing your own showcase and display cases.

How big is my table, and how many do I get?

Details are still being finalized — check with an organizer if you need to know before the show.

Can I move my table or change its position?

Tables are set by the Science Center and generally can't be moved, though it's fine to rearrange the fossils within your own space.

Where do I store bins and empty boxes during the day?

Under the tables — check with an organizer if you have a lot to store.

Art, in the Dino Den

Where am I?

The Dino Den, on the lower level.

Is a tablecloth provided?

Yes — every table in the Dino Den gets one.

How should I display my work?

Bring display cases, frames, easels, or whatever your work needs — plan on bringing your own way to display it.

Do I need a full table?

Tell us how much work you're bringing on your intake form so we can size your space.

Do I need to be there in person?

We strongly encourage it — visitors want to meet the person who made the work.

Can I sell my work?

Sales are strictly prohibited on site. You're encouraged to post links and QR codes directing visitors to your website so they can buy online, and to hand out flyers and cards to take home.

Energy Stage presenters

The 2026 stage schedule is full. These answers are for presenters who are already booked.

Where is the Energy Stage?

Near the back stairs on the lower level.

How do I get on the schedule?

The 2026 schedule is full. It will be published soon.

How long is a talk?

Lengths vary.

Is there a projector, screen, or microphone?

Yes, all three, managed by Science Center staff. Bring your laptop, a backup flash drive, and any other devices you need.

Can I do a demonstration rather than a talk?

Yes.

How big is the audience likely to be?

It varies through the day.

Do I need to send slides in advance?

Yes — this is required. Send them to Jon or Asa a week in advance.

I'm presenting and also exhibiting. Who covers my table?

Bring enough volunteers to cover your table while you're presenting.

Fossil Road Show experts, in May Hall

What is the Fossil Road Show?

Antiques Roadshow for fossils. Visitors bring in what they've found and our experts identify it — fossils, rocks, crystals, and possible meteorites.

Where is it?

May Hall, on the lower level.

Who staffs it?

Experts from our community. Let us know if you'd like to take a shift via the contact form.

How long is a shift?

About two hours, or as long as you'd like to stay.

What do we do when we cannot identify something?

Do your best and point them toward someone who can help.

Do we appraise or give values?

No. If someone asks what something is worth, tell them how old it is.

How do we handle someone who brings in something significant?

Connect them with the right expert at a museum, university, or other institution.

Mizzou, in May Hall

Where are you?

May Hall, on the lower level, sharing the room with the Fossil Road Show. Mizzou has three tables plus a separate table for an activity.

Anything else

Still have a question?

Ask us via the contact form and we'll add it here.

Intake forms

Please complete the form for your category by Monday, September 14, 2026. If you're doing more than one thing (say, exhibiting and presenting), fill out a form for each and mention it in the notes.