Tori Goes to Retic Fest 2026

Posted by Tori Vail on Aug 5th 2026

Every summer, reptile enthusiasts from across the country gather at Reach Out Reptiles in Pennsylvania for Retic Fest, a one-of-a-kind event celebrating dwarf reticulated pythons, reptile education, and the community that surrounds them. This year, I had the opportunity to attend for the first time, and it quickly became one of the most memorable reptile events I've ever experienced.

Walking through the doors of Reach Out Reptiles, it was immediately clear why so many people look forward to Retic Fest each year. Conversations filled the building as breeders, hobbyists, and other enthusiastic visitors admired an incredible collection of snakes. Every enclosure showcased years of careful breeding and dedication, with dwarf reticulated python morphs displaying colors and patterns that seemed almost unreal. The love and care for each of these animals was truly on display at Retic Fest.

One of the biggest attractions was, without question, Karma, Reach Out Reptiles' famous 200-pound reticulated python, and the largest snake in Pennsylvania. It took several members of the team working together just to carry her outside. Watching this display was almost as entertaining as meeting her. Once she settled into the grass, guests lined up for the chance to see her up close, take photos, and appreciate just how impressive an animal of that size truly is. I even had the chance to help hold Karma for a photo, an experience I'll never forget.

Retic Fest isn't just about seeing incredible animals it's also about learning from some of the most knowledgeable people in the reptile community.
Tanner Serpa of SerpaDesign gave a presentation on naturalistic enclosure design, encouraging keepers to think beyond aesthetics and create habitats that better reflect the environments their animals have evolved to live in. His passion for designing functional, enriching enclosures sparked thoughtful conversations long after the presentation ended.

I also had the opportunity to spend time with Warren Klein of Bushveld Reptiles, whose enthusiasm for African house snakes is contagious. Warren introduced visitors to a group of snakes that often don't receive the attention they deserve, showing why these smaller species make fascinating additions to the reptile hobby.

One of the unexpected highlights of the day came when I was invited upstairs for a behind-the-scenes look at Reach Out Reptiles' collection of arthropods. With Warren as my guide, I got a close look at more than 100 species of tarantulas, scorpions, and centipedes. A true highlight of the Retic Fest experience.

As the afternoon turned into evening, everyone gathered outside to enjoy barbecue, catch up with old friends, and meet new ones. The relaxed atmosphere made it easy to see why Retic Fest has become such a beloved annual tradition. While I had to leave before the evening bonfire wrapped up the event, I left with a new appreciation for the reptile community, unforgettable memories, and, of course, an exclusive Retic Fest 2026 shirt.

Events like Retic Fest are a reminder that the reptile hobby is about more than the animals themselves. It's about the people who dedicate their lives to caring for them, sharing their knowledge, and inspiring others to do the same. Fluker's is proud to be part of that community, and we're already looking forward to seeing everyone again next year.