Public events at the Museum include regular PlaySpace Pop-Ups, Storytime programs, indoor films, a summer movie series, family nature programs, and special events. For the most up-to-date information about our events, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, or check out our Linktree.
We ask that you notify the NCMNS-Whiteville staff ahead of time if you plan to bring groups of 10 or more to visit the Museum. Contact us at whiteville@naturalsciences.org or 910.788.5100 for more information or to notify us of your visit.
PlaySpace Pop-Ups
2nd Thursdays, 4th Thursdays, 3rd Saturdays10:30–11am
PlaySpace Pop-Ups are free outdoor programs designed to connect children to nature and can vary from nature skills and learning activities to building with natural materials. This program is guided by Museum staff and occur in our fenced, Nature PlaySpace. Pop-ups are geared towards ages 4-8 but other ages are welcome.
Please dress for outdoor play and exploration! In the event of light rain or cold, the Pop-Ups will still take place. In more adverse conditions, please call the museum to inquire about the program’s status. Registration not required.
Storytimes
2nd Saturdays, 3rd Thursdays10:30–11am
Join a museum educator for a nature or science-based story and activity! Storytimes take place on the 3rd Thursday and 2nd Saturday of each month inside our indoor classroom. This program is geared for ages 4-7 but all are welcome. Registration not required.
Learning at Home
Adventures Across North Carolina: State Symbols
What is the North Carolina State Bird? Did you know North Carolina has a State Reptile and a State Butterfly? Learn about these and many more in this week’s story! After the story, go on a State Symbol Scavenger Hunt, and share with us what you find. Scavenger Hunt: State Symbols
Blinking Beetles: Fireflies From A to Z
Get in the summer spirit with one of our favorite symbols of the season: fireflies. Learn all about these flashy figures and how to “speak” firefly in this week’s Storytime. After the story, practice your firefly communication in your own home!
Hummingbirds: Mighty Mini Migrants
Flitting, flapping, feathered and flashy, hummingbirds have arrived in North Carolina! Learn all about these feisty fliers and the amazing journey that they make every year. Watch the video, then learn how to attract and feed hummingbirds and discover how to observe them near your home, and make a fun hummingbird craft! Hummingbird craft: Make a Thaumatrope
Fuzzy, Buzzy, Bumble Bees
In this video, learn all about our important pollinator friends with Museum educator Meredith Morgan. After the story, set off on your own Pollinator Prowl to find pollinators in action around your home!
Am I a Skunk?
Join us on a quest to answer one animal’s very important question. What creatures might our critter meet along its journey through some of the special habitats of southeastern NC? Find out in our story! After the story, set off on your own comparison quest to explore nature and learn about the similarities we humans have with so many different kinds of living things. Comparison Quest PDF
Herp, Herp, Hooray!
Learn all about reptiles and amphibians in North Carolina and how to safely observe them outside your own home by making a cover board.
Do your kids like bugs? Get your “Bug On” this week in this story celebrating our tiny animal neighbors! Learn about fascinating bug behaviors in the video storytime, “Bug On!”, written by NCMNS Whiteville Education Specialist Meredith Morgan. Look for bugs around your own home, and share your photos of them with us on the Whiteville Facebook page!
Whiteville Programs and Events
For more information, contact the Museum at 910.788.5100 or whiteville@naturalsciences.org.