Events

A hands-on science experience!

Calling all dino-mite paleontologists—you have a role to play in the scientific process! You’ll wash, rinse, repeat as you search for bone fragments and objects of interest in approximately 1,000 pounds of red Permian dirt, excavated from the HMNS dig site near Seymour, Texas. Indoors, we’ll have some pter-rific crafts and activities. Learn your dino name, make a dino keepsake, and join us for a morning of messy fun, you won’t be saur-y…

All children must be ticketed and accompanied by a ticketed adult.

Footloose Flashback, where dancing is definitely encouraged! Head to Sugar Land and bust a move on the dance floor as DJ P. Charm spins all your favorite ’80s hits. Need a break from the groove? Chill out at our craft table, grab some bites from local food vendors (available for purchase), or swing by our cash bars to refresh your drink. It’s going to be a night of rad vibes and retro beats that you don’t want to miss!

*Event is 21+

*Limited tickets available

Everything you ever wanted to know about America’s Native Spirit! Why does almost all of this uniquely American spirit come from Kentucky? What goes into distilling and aging bourbon, and how is it different from other whiskeys? Is the historical record advertised by the distillers factual or are these stories embellished?

Discover the science behind bourbon and explore a range of flavors as you taste different varieties, paired with delicious light bites. Kentucky native, Randy Bruner, will walk you through the history, methods and myths related to bourbon. Randy developed his interest in bourbon at an almost legal age, and has continued to follow trends in the world of bourbon ever since. He has visited every distillery in Kentucky, and makes an annual pilgrimage every year to seek out new products and craft distilleries.

Please note – This event is for adults 21 or older.

Tricks, Treats & T-Rex is back at HMNS at Sugar Land! The Magical Maze Festival on Saturday, October 19 features early Halloween fun. Every young pirate and princess will enjoy the festival fun, including carnival games, trick or treating, character photo-ops, face painting, and more.

Get creative and wear your best costume for the Grand Costume Contest, with prizes to be won! It’s a spooky Saturday you won’t forget!

Celebrate the holidays with Jingle Tree! It’s the most wonderful time of the year, as one of Fort Bend’s most beloved events—Jingle Tree, presented by Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital—returns to HMNS at Sugar Land. Jingle Tree features a showcase of beautifully decorated trees and décor, up for bid in a week long, online silent auction. Jingle Tree takes place November 14-20 and the Honorary Chairs are long time museum supporters and Fort Bend residents, Judi Dai & Catalina Flores-Rau.

Three times a year, HMNS at Sugar Land offers Sensory Friendly Events where exhibits and venues are modified to create a sensory neutral environment for those with autism and sensory sensitivities. Sensory Backpacks, which include ear defenders, sunglasses, and fidgets, are available to check out with an ID at the Box Office, and Touch Carts with tactile specimens to explore will be available throughout the museum’s permanent exhibit halls. Pre-registration is required for these events, which take place during the hour before the Museum opens to the public. Tickets may be purchased at a discounted rate. Free permanent exhibit hall admission for Sensory Friendly Events at HMNS at Sugar Land is made possible by proceeds from our annual fundraiser, Jingle Tree. We are grateful to all our generous donors for their support.

 
2025 Event Dates are:

Saturday, January 25 – 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Saturday, May 10 – 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Saturday, October 4 – 9:00 am – 10:00 am

Individuals with disabilities and their families will receive free admission to the permanent exhibit halls for Sensory Friendly Events at HMNS and Sugar Land! Pre-registration is required to access free admission. To pre-register for these events and to book your visit, please email us at SLAccessProgramming@hmns.org.