The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH) invites families and dinosaur fans of all ages to meet Buddy the Dinosaur, the PBS KIDS character from “Dinosaur Train,” 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13.

Buddy the Dinosaur, an orange and blue prehistoric dino, is the star of 'Dinosaur Train' on PBS KIDS. (Courtesy photo)
Buddy the Dinosaur is the star of ‘Dinosaur Train’ on PBS KIDS. (Courtesy photo)

Held on the patio of the museum’s Broder Building adjacent to the Prehistoric Forest exhibit, the dino meet-and-greet offers guests the chance to spend time with Buddy, ask him a question and take photos,

The event is included with SBMNH admission; museum members attend free. No registration is required.

“Buddy inspires curiosity about the prehistoric world and helps young learners connect with science through storytelling and adventure,” said Jessica Leathers, SBMNH membership manager.

“We’re excited to welcome families to enjoy this unique opportunity to meet Buddy in person, surrounded by the life-sized dinosaurs of our Prehistoric Forest,” she said.

Buddy, whose full name is Budson “Buddy” Rexander, is the young Tyrannosaurus rex protagonist of the Emmy-nominated PBS KIDS series “Dinosaur Train.”

The character’s curiosity and enthusiasm for exploration have made him a favorite among young audiences and a natural fit for the museum’s mission of inspiring a thirst for discovery and a passion for the natural world,” event organizers said.

Also on Sept. 13, 9-10 a.m., Buddy will make a special appearance at Donuts & Dinos, the museum’s annual Member Appreciation Breakfast in Prehistoric Forest.

Members can enjoy coffee, juice and donuts while mingling with Buddy among the museum’s dinosaurs along Mission Creek.

Advance RSVP is required for members, who also can buy a ticket for a non-member guest to accompany them.

Both events are part of SBMNH’s annual Member Appreciation Month, Sept. 8-Oct. 10. Throughout the celebration.

Other Member Appreciation Month highlights include:
• Cocktails with a Curator featuring Ally Coconis, curator of mammalogy, Sept. 17.
• Complimentary admission to Santa Barbara Botanic Garden for SBMNH members, Sept. 8-Oct. 10 
• Special Museum and Sea Center Store discounts on branded merchandise, Sept. 8-Oct. 10.