What make bobcats such good hunters? Why are coyotes hard to spot? How do beavers keep warm in cold water? Join us at the Catawba River Area to learn about the amazing adaptations of the animals that call Lake James home. Then, take a hike to see what wildlife you can find! This event is part of the 2025 NC Science Festival.

At the Bioblitz you’ll have a chance to become a scientist for the day and experience the adventure of discovering nature! BioBlitz is a collaborative event where participants work together to identify and record as many species of plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms as possible in a specific area. We’ll have expert naturalists helping adults and families discover pond life, catch butterflies, spot wildflowers, identify birds, and discover insects. You can check out supplies like binoculars, magnifying glasses, and bug boxes to explore independently or participate in guided sessions at scheduled times. We’ll also have educational opportunities for families and adults looking to learn more about native wildlife. Bioblitz Schedule All Day 10 am – 2 pm – Citizen Science Table Open with Check Out Supplies 10 am – 2 pm – Wildlife Touch Tables Guided Discovery Sessions 10:15 –10:50 am Pond Dipping 10-11 am Birding Hike 11 am – 11:30 am Meet the Reptiles Presentation 12:00 –12:45 pm Pond Dipping 12-12:45 Wildflower Hike…

The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to a very unique creature that some say resembles a collection of fairies carrying blue candles through the forest.  The Blue Ghost Firefly (Phausis reticulata) is a secretive, hard-to-find native insect that calls our area home, and for a very short amount of time in late Spring, they inhabit our surrounding woodlands of Transylvania County.  You’ll experience an educational presentation at our outdoor amphitheater starting at 8:45 pm and then use the cover of darkness and special flashlights to go in search of the Blue Ghost fireflies while hiking on a paved trail through the forest. Team members will be stationed at key locations around the trail to provide further information about this amazing natural phenomenon. Please feel free to congregate near these areas with your fellow firefly enthusiasts, or go explore on your own! We require everyone to stay on the trail to prevent habitat damage, and team members will clear the trail and require everyone to depart by…

Enjoy hands-on learning through experiments, crafts, and other activities. Each month offers a different theme that children and caregivers can learn about together. This is a self-paced drop-in program. Pre-registration is not required.

Enjoy hands-on learning through experiments, crafts, and other activities. Each month offers a different theme that children and caregivers can learn about together. This is a self-paced drop-in program. Pre-registration is not required.

Enjoy hands-on learning through experiments, crafts, and other activities. Each month offers a different theme that children and caregivers can learn about together. This is a self-paced drop-in program. Pre-registration is not required.

Enjoy hands-on learning through experiments, crafts, and other activities. Each month offers a different theme that children and caregivers can learn about together. This is a self-paced drop-in program. Pre-registration is not required.

Enjoy hands-on learning through experiments, crafts, and other activities. Each month offers a different theme that children and caregivers can learn about together. This is a self-paced drop-in program. Pre-registration is not required.

Discovery Place will collect handmade birthday cards from guests to send to Dr. Jane Goodall. Using recycled materials, guests can create cards to wish Dr. Goodall a happy birthday and to share their pledge to make a positive impact on the planet. Activities are included with Museum Admission.

Earth Day at Sturgeon City: A Day of Fun and Education! Join us for a FREE public event on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10am-2pm. What to expect: Engaging Science Stations: Explore a variety of hands-on STEM activities, both indoors and outdoors. Delicious Food Trucks: Satisfy your cravings with a variety of delicious food options. Face Painting Fun: Add a touch of whimsy with face painting. Exciting Games: Keep everyone entertained with a variety of games. Craft Fair: Shop for unique handmade items from local artisans. Live Music: Live Music from 11am to 2pm by 2Digh4