Events

Slow down and observe through the lens of phenology—the study of seasonal cycles in nature. Drawing inspiration from classic botanical archives, craft your own miniature natural-history collection using seeds, pods, and preserved plant materials.

As fall arrives, plants produce seeds, marking an important moment in their annual rhythms. Study and mount plant specimens like a botanist, arranging them into an artistic composition in an 11”x14” shadow box frame. Finish with handwritten scientific labels to create a unique display that brings together art, science, and the beauty of the season.

This event takes place at HMNS Sugar Land. All supplies are provided, and you are welcome to bring a small nature treasure of your own.

Ages 16+

Everything you ever wanted to know about America’s Native Spirit.

Step back into the era of bootleggers, secret passwords and underground lounges to discover how the Roaring Twenties and Prohibition shaped American drinking culture, transformed bourbon production and influenced the spirits we enjoy today.

Meet the notorious bootleggers, federal agents and colorful personalities who redefined the era while uncovering why nearly all of this uniquely American spirit comes from Kentucky. Explore the science of distilling and aging, and learn what distinguishes bourbon from other whiskeys. You’ll also separate historical fact from the myths and embellished stories promoted by some of the country’s most famous distillers.

Taste the liquid history that survived Prohibition through a curated selection of bourbons, including rare varieties inspired by the era. Each tasting will be complemented by delicious light bites.

Your guide for the evening is Kentucky native Randy Bruner, who developed his passion for bourbon at an almost legal age and has followed the industry’s evolution ever since. Randy has visited every distillery in Kentucky and returns annually to discover emerging trends, new products and hidden craft distilleries. 

This event is for adults 21 and up only.

Tricks, Treats & T-Rex is back at HMNS at Sugar Land! The Magical Maze Festival on Saturday, October 24 features early Halloween fun. Every young pirate and princess will enjoy games & crafts, 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!

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.

 
2026 Event Dates are:

Saturday, January 24 – 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Saturday, May 9 – 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Saturday, October 10 – 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.