Museum of Life and Science Kids Night Out

Experience the joy of literacy and the beauty of nature combined with the May StoryWalk series across various Wake County Parks. This engaging program invites families to read a featured children book page by page as they navigate scenic walking trails. It is a fantastic way to encourage outdoor exercise while fostering a love for reading in children of all ages. Each location offers a unique story tailored for the season and the setting of the park. From the vibrant illustrations in I Love Strawberries at Beech Bluff to the reflective themes of Drawn Together at Oak View, there is a fresh adventure waiting at every corner. Visitors can explore these installations throughout the entire month of May at locations including Crowder, Harris Lake, Yates Mill, and Sandy Pines. We encourage everyone to lace up their walking shoes, bring the family along, and immerse themselves in these literary adventures set against the backdrop of our stunning local parks. Please visit our park websites to check specific park hours and map your route for this delightful outdoor experience. We look forward to seeing you out on the trails soon.

Total Tot Time offers an engaging and energetic environment for children ages five and under, alongside their parents or caregivers, to explore and play. Hosted by Durham Parks and Recreation at the W.D. Hill Recreation Center, this recurring program provides a wonderful opportunity for early socialization in a safe, indoor gym setting. Whether your little one enjoys navigating through tunnels, playing with a parachute, or practicing coordination skills, there is something for every toddler to enjoy while parents connect with fellow community members. This weekly gathering is held every Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. through May 20, 2026. Because no reservation is required, it is a convenient and flexible option for families looking to add structure and excitement to their morning routine without any cost. We invite you to bring your children to 1308 Fayetteville Street for active fun and meaningful social development. Join us this week and become a part of our growing community of active families. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones on the gym floor for a morning of laughter, learning, and play.

Ignite your childs imagination and love for literature at the Creative Cup Toddler Story Time. This engaging program is specifically designed for children from birth to three years old, providing a nurturing environment where little ones can explore the magic of storytelling. Each session features a captivating book reading, rhythmic musical activities, and interactive play designed to support early developmental milestones and social interaction among toddlers. Our program is facilitated by Ms. Amanda, who brings a wealth of enthusiasm and expertise to every gathering. This is an excellent opportunity for caregivers to connect with other parents in the community while providing their children with a stimulating educational experience. We focus on fostering a positive relationship with books through sensory engagement and creative movement. No registration is required to join this wonderful community experience. We invite you to drop by and participate in these weekly adventures as we cultivate a lifelong passion for reading. Please join us at the Creative Cup for an energetic session of songs, stories, and laughter that your child will surely cherish.

Looking for the perfect destination to entertain your children regardless of the weather? Woodplay of the Carolinas offers an ideal indoor environment where kids can burn off energy and explore. Whether it is a rainy, cold, or hot day, our expansive party room serves as the ultimate gathering spot for families seeking active, engaging play. From high energy playsets to fun trampolines, there is something for every child to enjoy in a safe and welcoming setting. We provide a dedicated toddler area stocked with age appropriate equipment, ensuring that even our youngest guests have a fantastic time. We invite you to join us on weekdays between 10am and 2pm for unstructured open play sessions. It is a wonderful opportunity for mommy and me meet ups or simply allowing your little ones to socialize and develop their motor skills. We operate on a drop in basis and registration is not strictly required, though you may sign your waiver online ahead of time for a smoother arrival. Please check our website for the latest updates on holiday closures or special camps. We look forward to seeing your family soon for a day of active fun.

Experience the North Carolina Zoo in a peaceful and inclusive way designed specifically for visitors seeking a calmer environment. We understand that busy park days can often be overwhelming, which is why we are proud to offer recurring Quiet Days that prioritize your comfort and sensory needs. During these dedicated times, guests can look forward to significantly fewer crowds, a tranquil atmosphere free from loud music or public announcements, and access to designated quiet zones located throughout the park. To enhance your visit, we provide complimentary sensory bags available at both Guest Services and the Kidzone. Families can also participate in specialized sensory play activities held between 10 AM and 2 PM. Whether you are exploring our expansive habitats or enjoying the serene nature trails, this initiative ensures an accessible experience for everyone to enjoy the wonders of wildlife at their own pace. We invite you to plan your peaceful visit today and take advantage of this unique opportunity. Join us every third Tuesday of the month through December 2026 to enjoy a refreshing and relaxing day out at the zoo.

Experience an unforgettable evening at the Museum of Life and Science with our Kids Night Out program. Designed specifically for children ages five to ten, this event offers a unique opportunity for little ones to explore the museum after regular operating hours in a safe and supervised environment. Participants will enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including hands-on science experiments, interactive games, and guided explorations of our most popular exhibits. Pizza is provided to keep everyone energized throughout the night, ensuring a fun-filled experience that is as educational as it is entertaining. This program serves as the perfect solution for parents looking for a few hours of well-deserved personal time while knowing their children are actively engaged in meaningful play. Each session features fresh, rotating activities, making every visit a new adventure for returning guests. We invite you to join us on the second and fourth Friday of each month for this exclusive experience. Space is limited, so we encourage interested families to visit the Museum of Life and Science website today to view upcoming dates and complete the registration process. Secure your childs spot now for an evening of discovery, creativity, and excitement.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Artful Story Time is a recurring educational program that bridges the gap between classic children literature and fine art. This month we are focusing on the cultural traditions surrounding the Muslim festival of Eid al Adha through immersive storytelling and visual exploration within our museum galleries. Attendees will participate in interactive reading sessions led by guest speakers from Artist Ummah. The program incorporates movement exercises, hands-on creative activities, and gallery observations that highlight how Eid is celebrated both globally and specifically within the North Carolina community. These elements provide a tangible way for participants to engage with diverse cultural narratives and artistic expressions in a meaningful, shared environment. This event is designed for families and children who enjoy creative learning and cultural storytelling. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and celebratory. We encourage guests to dress in their favorite festive attire to enhance the spirit of the occasion. Please join us for this unique opportunity to learn, create, and connect through the power of art and literature. We look forward to welcoming you to the gallery for this special holiday celebration.

Boris Lurie: Echoes of Memory is a multidisciplinary program honoring the legacy of Holocaust survivor and NO! art movement founder Boris Lurie. This event explores how trauma and identity shape creative expression through a thoughtful blend of visual art, live music, and historical analysis. It serves as a space for reflection on artistic responses to the Holocaust and the enduring impact of Lurie’s work. The performance features violinist Ilana Zaks-Nederlander, who will present a curated selection of works by Jewish composers impacted by the Holocaust. Beyond the musical program, the event includes opening remarks and a post-event discussion. These segments provide critical historical context, connecting Lurie’s art to broader cultural narratives and the themes presented in the Off the Wall series. This program is ideal for students, history enthusiasts, and art lovers interested in the intersection of personal experience and creative activism. Attendees can expect a professional, moving, and thought-provoking environment designed to facilitate deep engagement with complex subject matter. We invite you to join this unique tribute to understand how art preserves memory and challenges historical silence.