HMNS Events

The Braeswood Farmers Market will be setting up shop on the Museum Sundial Plaza on Sunday, April 5th, 2026 from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Can’t make this one? Don’t worry, there are more Farmers Markets coming up!

• May 3, 2026
• June 7, 2026
• July 5, 2026
• August 2, 2026
• September 6, 2026
• October 4, 2026
• November 1, 2026

Vendors may vary at every farmers market.

Join HMNS astronomers for a guided tour of the night sky highlights and seasonal celebrations.

Tuesday Rooftop Astronomy Upcoming Dates:

• March 24, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm – Featuring the Sun, Moon, Venus and Jupiter
• April 28, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm – Featuring the Sun, Moon, Venus and Jupiter
• May 26, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm – Featuring the Sun, Moon and Venus

Sundial Celebrations Upcoming Dates:

• Saturday March 21, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm – Spring (Vernal) Equinox

For a full list of dates, click the link below.

Three times a year, HMNS offers Sensory Friendly events where exhibits and venues are modified for those with sensory sensitivities. Exhibits and venues are modified to create a sensory neutral environment. The Burke Baker Planetarium and Wortham Giant Screen Theatre also offer modified 2D shows with house lights on and the volume reduced. Sensory Backpacks, which include ear defenders, sunglasses, and fidgets, are available to check out with an ID at the Museum Services Desk, and Touch Carts with tactile specimens to explore will be available throughout the museum’s permanent exhibit halls. To pre-register for free permanent exhibit hall entry, please click the link below.

2026 Event dates:

• Saturday, April 25, 2026: 8:00 am – 10:00 am
• Saturday, September 26, 2026: 8:00 am – 10:00 am
• Monday, December 7, 2026: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

After Hour Sensory Friendly Events:

• Monday, February 23rd, 2026: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
  Designed especially for individuals of all ages with autism and sensory sensitivities, but welcoming to all who might benefit, this free event features a sensory-inclusive environment with exhibit modifications, reduced crowds, and a relaxed, self-paced experience. Explore select first-floor exhibits, including the Welch Hall: Matter & Motion, and take part in a self-paced photo scavenger hunt in the Morian Hall of Paleontology. Sensory backpacks and noise-reducing headphones will be available for checkout.

Individuals with disabilities and their families will receive free admission to the Permanent Exhibit halls for Sensory Friendly Events at HMNS! To pre-register for these events and to book your visit please click the “Pre-Register” button below or email us at accessprogramming@hmns.org.

Ditch the usual bar scene and step into something extraordinary. Mixers & Elixirs is where fascinating people, themed cocktails, and electrifying live music come together for a night of next-level fun. Wander off for a free flick in the Giant Screen Theatre or take the stage with karaoke in the Burke Baker Planetarium—because this isn’t just a party, it’s an experience. 

Kick off the first Senior Social of the year with a guided journey through the rainforest inside the Cockrell Butterfly Center. Join one of our knowledgeable docents for a timed tour among free-flying butterflies and lush surroundings, plus enjoy a delicious breakfast and a hot cup of coffee served in the Moran Lecture Hall as part of the experience. It’s the perfect way to spend a morning learning something new while enjoying great food and even better company.

Breakfast doors open at 8:30 am, with tour times beginning at 9:00 am.

• This event is for guests aged 50+

• Timed tours are first-come, first-served and have limited capacity per time slot. If your preferred tour time is full, you will be offered the next available option.

• General admission tickets will be available on Wednesday, April 15.