UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Most people avoid insects because they're afraid of being bitten. But thousands of visitors are expected to swarm to Penn State's Great Insect Fair to get a closer look at bugs that bite, suck, sting, spray, stab or chew.

Sponsored by the College of Agricultural Sciences' entomology department, the fair takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 23 in the Snider Agricultural Arena, at the corner of Park Avenue and Fox Hollow Road (across from Beaver Stadium) on the University Park campus.

Steven Jacobs, senior extension associate in entomology, says the fair's theme, "Bugs Bite," will focus on various biting and stinging insects, such as bees, fleas, wasps, bed bugs, spiders, mosquitoes and ticks. Visitors will be able to watch live-action images, such as spiders pouncing on their prey and bees stinging other insects, projected onto an 8-foot screen.

"People are fascinated by insects but are often afraid of being bitten," Jacobs explains. "In actuality, very few insects bite or sting. We're focusing this year's fair on these biting insects and how to avoid them."

Organizers say other fun and interactive events are being planned to appeal to people of all ages:

* 10-Foot-Tall Fangs and Stingers -- See images projected live on screen.

* IPM/Pesticide Safety Putt Putt -- Test your golf skills and pesticide safety knowledge.

* Cockroach Races -- A Great Insect Fair traditional favorite is back.

* Insect Olympics -- Compare your physical prowess to that of bugs in a series of Olympic-style events.

* Insect Petting Zoo -- See and touch many fascinating, live insects from around the world.

* Honey Bee Display -- Sample different types of honey and see honey bees dance.

* Insect Deli -- Featuring critter cuisine such as mealworm stir fry and infamous "Chocolate Chirpies" (chocolate-covered crickets).

* Build-A-Bug Contest -- Bring your homemade insect for judging and a chance to win prizes (for rules and guidelines, visit the Web at http://entscied.cas.psu.edu/BAB.html).

* Musical Entertainment -- Featuring Tommy Wareham and other well-known local performers.

* Children's Games and Activities -- Kids can enjoy face painting and games and can make their own insect hats and puppets.

* Insect Vendors -- Shop for insect pets and insect arts, crafts, books and t-shirts.

* The BugMobile! -- Learn about insects and integrated pest management while chatting with the one and only talking car.

* Ladybug Theatre -- Students from the Delta Program (State College Area High School) perform humorous insect skits.

Admission to the Great Insect Fair is free, although donations will be accepted to help defray costs. Free parking is available at the Snider Agricultural Arena and across Park Avenue behind the Centre County/Penn State Visitor Center. For more information, call the entomology department at 814-865-1895 or visit the Web at http://entscied.cas.psu.edu/.

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EDITORS: For more information, contact the department of entomology at 814-865-1895.

Writer/Editor Jeff Mulhollem Phone: 814-863-2719 E-mail: jjm29@psu.edu