Topics Related to Kids' Activities

Aycock Birthplace Celebrates Christmas with Glowing Candlelight

Experience Christmas Candlelight Tours at Aycock Birthplace Dec. 3 and Dec. 5 with costumed interpreters who explain rural Christmas traditions and demonstrate open-hearth cooking. Tours will be given from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Admission for ages 5 and older is $3; ages 4 and under are free.

Music from the Harmony Boys of Mount Olive will add to the festive mood Tuesday, Dec. 3 as food is cooked at the hearth. The joy of cooking again will be highlighted Thursday, Dec. 5, with food prepared on the hearth over an open fire.

Queen Anne’s Revenge Conservation Lab Celebrates Archaeology Month with Wonder Challenge

The Queen Anne’s Revenge Conservation Lab is celebrating Archaeology Month in North Carolina by taking over the National Science Olympiad’s October Wonder Challenge. 

To celebrate the National Science Olympiad Tournament coming to North Carolina in May 2020, the lab is challenging members of the public to build a boat with whatever floats. You can use any materials you have around your home such as duct tape, paper cups, straws, or paper. 

Aquarium Scholars Grants Available for 2019-2020 School Year

While the traditional school year is ending for teachers and students across the state, it is never too early for educators to think of exciting ways to engage their students next year. The North Carolina Aquariums team wants to help by making it easier to access marine education and connect young people to nature and the ocean. 

Bartram Day: Exploring History Through Art and Nature at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site

Become an 18th century naturalist like John and William Bartram! This father/son duo visited the area in the 1760s and documented the unique environment of southeastern North Carolina. 

“Meet Your State Symbols” Returns to the NC State Capitol

Did you know the state tree is the pine? How about that the state sport is stock car racing? Multiple plants, animals, and arts have been made symbols of the state; come out to learn about these things and meet your North Carolina state symbols at the symbol for our state, the NC State Capitol! Join the Capitol for a day of free, family fun on Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Enjoy Veterans Day at Natural and Cultural Attractions

Experience some of the great things about North Carolina this Veterans Day at attractions within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Most state historic sites are closed but all state parks are open, and of course are free. Free or discounted admission is available at most venues that normally charge an admission fee, and there will be family friendly activities all across the state.


East

N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. Open to all. Gift shop will offer military discount of 20 percent Nov. 10-12. Free.

100th “Kids in Parks” TRACK Trail to Open in Tarboro Nov. 1

The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources will join Kids in Parks, Edgecombe County and the Town of Tarboro Thursday, Nov. 1 to celebrate the opening of North Carolina’s 100th “Kids in Parks” TRACK Trail at Indian Lake in Tarboro. 

The grand opening, including a ribbon cutting and guided hike, will be held at 11 a.m., Nov. 1 at Indian Lake Sports Complex, 3300 Western Blvd, Tarboro. The public is invited to attend. 

Come Play at Duke Homestead’s Historic Games Day July 28

Who needs TVs or tablets? Unplug at Duke Homestead’s “Family Day: Historic Games.” This free event takes place Saturday, July 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and is perfect for kids aged two to 10. 

Costumed staff and junior interpreters will lead visiting kids in games typical of the 19th century, from parlor games to town ball. Kids will be encouraged to run, throw, make, think, touch and learn through hands-on activities. These activities include several options of toys to make and take home! Be sure to join in this fun family outing.

Celebrate Independence Day at Historic Sites That Formed the Nation on the Fourth of July

There are many ways to celebrate the Fourth of July, but none more authentic than at a state historic site that played a role in the march to independence for the American colony. Roanoke Island, Historic Halifax, Historic Edenton and Tryon Palace all were part of the creation of this nation and will celebrate with history, fireworks, music or a reading of the Declaration of Independence. 

Duke Homestead Hosts Annual Celebration of Pork, Pickles & Peanuts

Duke Homestead celebrates North Carolina’s food history and culture July 14 at “Pork, Pickles and Peanuts: Tastes of North Carolina.” This free, fun family event focuses on everything that makes the state taste great with the highly competitive and extremely tasty annual Barbecue Cook-Off and Pie Competition from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.