The 10th Annual Bat Appreciation Day at the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine in East Granby will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM! The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Wildlife Division and Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) sponsor this celebration of bat conservation and Connecticut history. Bat Appreciation Day highlights the story of one of Connecticut’s most intriguing historical sites and its importance to the conservation of endangered species.

This event features bat activities for the whole family and includes exhibits, presentations, live bats, activities, bat story time, historical tales, the unique opportunity to sneak a peek at the “bat cave”, bat crafts, conservation partners, and more. Check out the tentative agenda (more updates to come).