What can you find in the night sky this time of year? Find out as we look into the heavens to see the constellations and planets that are visible from your own backyard in this blend of star lore and facts.

Sky Quest is an exploration of the stars, planets and constellations told from the viewpoint of an astronomer. Share her lifelong fascination with the heavens-from her childhood adventures on Mars (via a cardboard rocket)- to the discovery of her “birthday star” that led her to become an astronomer and build her own mountain-top observatory. Narrated by Roxann Dawson (of Star Trek: Voyager), this program introduces the wonders of astronomy to people of all ages. Produced by Loch Ness Productions.

Ken Fulton has been described as the light-headed astronomer, but he is best known for his book, “The Light-Hearted Astronomer.” Naked eye and binocular observing are promoted in this adaptation, along with the personal experience and enjoyment of astronomy. Visitors will also learn how NOT to buy a telescope…perfect information for the upcoming Holiday season!

Explore the frog’s anatomy and unique adaptations that help the frog survive in this hands-on mini-workshop for all ages. Pre-Registration required. Call 704-854-6676. $5 per participant-visitors can observe the program for free!

Discover the prehistoric people of North Carolina through the fascinating story told by the artifacts found in Hardaway, a site in central North Carolina on the banks of the Yadkin River.

Explore the world of Viking  stones, beginning with an overview of Viking culture, including their pioneering exploration of North America. We’ll seek out our surprising Viking connections-both historical and personal-and then using stone age/iron age technologies, construct a Viking-style boat burial monument.  We’ll also explore the Viking runes and their meanings and a create a runic token of our own.  Best of all, this experience includes a Viking feast! $40 Members/$45 Non-members. Pre-registration is required. Call Steve Watts 704.866.6912.

Budding naturalists are invited to explore nature and history in the Bobcats Den. Kid-friendly activities and special programs are designed to promote experiential learning. Puzzles, live animals, games, discovery nooks and more await young children in this very special place to learn. Bud ’N’ Naturalists is made possible by a generous grant from the Lyon Foundation.

Let the wood chips fly! Competitors from the South Atlantic Woodsmen's Association compete with chainsaws, axes and more during six events to determine who is the top lumberjack. Plan to stay for the day-food and drink will be available on site! $3 with museum admission

Ancient Carolinians hunted big game with the atlatl-the spear thrower. Learn about the atlatl’s history, see replicated spears and atlatls and try your own hand at Ice Age spear throwing.

PIRATES, CANNONS, SWORDS, MAYHEM... fun for the entire family! Hands-on pirate activities from 10 AM – 4 PM. Enjoy a presentation of a Pirate Party, a puppet show at 11 AM & 2 PM and a special appearance by Eric Lavender, pirate entertainer, with his Maccaw Bob! Plus, dozens of pirate reenactors including Gypsy Jack!

Stop by our interactive station in Pirates! to enjoy hands-on activities, touchable objects, and live animals from the sea. Be sure to ask our mate on duty any questions you might have about the exhibit.

Museum visitor “contestants” are wanted for an overboard game of chance and knowledge. Led by wild and rowdy costumed host, contestants spin the wheel to answer questions about pirate history, legends and lore, seamanship, and more. Contestants can win prizes, but you have to give your answer like a pirate would. Fun for all ages – groups and families especially!

Feature Exhibit Opening Saturday May 15 Welcome to a world of swashbucklers, scallywags, and scurvy sea dogs--it's the pirates of the New World--that motley mob that ruled the waves from Carolina to the Caribbean. Here you'll meet Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, Mary Read, Stede Bonnet and, aye--Blackbeard himself. Walk the decks of a pirate ship, visit a pirate camp, wander the dark streets of a pirate town, and uncover a rich buried treasure ofpirate facts and fiction. You may design your own Jolly Roger, tour the Rogue's Gallery and view genuine 18th century pirate artifacts recovered from Queen Anne's Revenge. Be there--if you dare! Be sure to join us on opening day – meet costumed interpreters, movies and special sessions of Pirate Wheel of Fortune throughout the day!

Join us in a journey to the early 1700’s for an encampment of pirates on a backwater farm! In the Golden Age of Piracy, settlement had not yet reached into the Piedmont region. Pirates ashore might travel into backwater settlements or farms along the Coastal rivers for repairs, rest and recruitment.

Feature Exhibit Opening Saturday May 15 Welcome to a world of swashbucklers, scallywags, and scurvy sea dogs--it's the pirates of the New World--that motley mob that ruled the waves from Carolina to the Caribbean. Here you'll meet Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, Mary Read, Stede Bonnet and, aye--Blackbeard himself. Walk the decks of a pirate ship, visit a pirate camp, wander the dark streets of a pirate town, and uncover a rich buried treasure ofpirate facts and fiction. You may design your own Jolly Roger, tour the Rogue's Gallery and view genuine 18th century pirate artifacts recovered from Queen Anne's Revenge. Be there--if you dare! Be sure to join us on opening day – meet costumed interpreters, movies and special sessions of Pirate Wheel of Fortune throughout the day!