HMNS Brings New Events and Exhibitions in October

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The Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) is brewing up a spellbinding October lineup packed with thrilling events for all ages across all locations.

Visitors are invited to fall into the fun all month long – whether you’re uncovering ancient history during International Archaeology Day, gazing at the stars during the Sun and Moon Festival, joining a special storytime at the Abella and the Lost Hermit Crab Book Signing, tackling costume contests and Halloween games at Tricks, Treats & T-Rex Magical Maze Festival, or dancing the night away at HMNS’ signature 21+ party, Mixers & Elixirs: Spirits & Skeletons.

Join the International Archaeology Day on October 17. Try your hand at ancient crafting, watch live flintknapping demonstrations to see stone-age tools crafted from scratch, and chat with real archaeologists and fellow history buffs. Whether you’re a lifelong history lover or just curious about what’s buried beneath your feet, this free, family-friendly event is going to be a blast.

Celebrate the spectacle of the Sun, Moon, and celestial objects in our Milky Way Galaxy, during this day-long festival. See a live view of the Sun during the day, and look through telescopes and binoculars at the night-time wonders of the universe once it gets dark. Discover the mythology behind the constellations, and get hands on with crafts and activities in the exhibit hall. This annual event has flexible attendance—you’re welcome to come and go, explore the park or stay with us the entire time. Food and drinks will be available for purchase onsite. Tickets must be purchased online, in advance, and the event is weather dependent.

Join award-winning international best writer for young readers, Zane Carson Carruth, on Saturday, October 24, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm for a special book signing event at the Morian Hall of Paleontology Overlook on the second floor. Zane will be signing her new book, Abella and the Lost Hermit Crab. Meet the author, get your book signed, and stay for an afternoon of fun featuring story time, crafts, activities, and a sweet treat.

Book Reading Schedule: 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm*; *Times are subject to change based on attendance; The event is free with the purchase of a General Admission ticket. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Books will be available for purchase at the Museum Store and during the book signing.

Tricks, Treats & T-Rex is back at HMNS at Sugar Land. The Magical Maze Festival on Saturday, October 24 features early Halloween fun. Every young pirate and princess will enjoy games & crafts, trick or treating, character photo-ops, face painting, and more. Get creative and wear your best costume for the Grand Costume Contest, with prizes to be won.

Wander the frightfully festive halls of the museum after hours for our most anticipated event of the year; Spirits & Skeletons. Dress to impress…the dead, that is! Show off your costume while you dance the night away with live DJs and In10city, sip spooky cocktails, and explore the museum after dark. Looking for a good fright? Experience Sinners (2025) on the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre or grab the mic and sing your heart out in our Thriller Karaoke Lounge inside the Burke Baker Planetarium. Whether you’re here to dance, explore, or celebrate Halloween in style, there’s something hauntingly fun around every corner. Costumes are always encouraged! This event is 21+.

Check out the HMNS website for the full schedule of events and exhibitions.

Photos courtesy of HMNS

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