Celebrate Earth Day with a hands-on learning experience at Daniel Stowe Conservancy! Homeschool students will explore birds, seeds, and pond ecosystems, use microscopes to observe nature up close, and enjoy the Adventure Trail and Prairie Castle Playground. Educators will be stationed at learning stations throughout the conservancy, and families are welcome to explore at their own pace while discovering the wonders of the natural world.

Age: 5 and up

Cost: Students $15 | Non-member adult $11.95
*Adult members and children four and under are FREE

Join Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services for a hands-on learning and volunteer opportunity focused on Stream Cleanup and Storm Drain Marking. Volunteers will help remove litter from the stream and surrounding areas. Then volunteers can choose to mark drains which help Mecklenburg County maintain a healthy water system for everyone.

You can choose which activity you'd like to participate in!

Reminder:

• Bring a reusable water bottle

• Wear comfortable clothes & shoes

• Supplies will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis

• Register by April 21, 2026

Bring a friend and volunteer together! It’s a great way to learn and help make a difference by keeping Charlotte’s surface waters clean and pollution-free!

Cost: FREE

Ages: 5 and up

Experience the excitement as 72 robots face off in a Battlebots-style tournament at UNC Charlotte! Cheer on your favorite contenders as they compete inside a reinforced glass and steel arena until one is disabled or judges decide after two minutes.

As part of the NC Science Festival, this free, family-friendly event welcomes guests to drop in anytime throughout the day, with bleachers, a kids’ viewing zone, and standing-room space available. For a calmer experience, consider attending after 3 PM, when matches tend to be less stimulating.

Age: All Ages

Cost: FREE

Visit the Monroe Science Center for a day full of hands-on science and learning as part of the NC Science Festival. Several community partners and hands-on stations will be available throughout the museum to celebrate all things STEAM.

Admission is free, however, advance registration is required and opens in March 2026.

Age: All Ages

Cost: FREE

Take advantage of Education Days at Carowinds, where kids of all ages can have fun and learn the science behind their favorite rides! Students will engage in interactive stations covering Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics when they test their knowledge with hands-on activities. Experiment with circuits, discover the role of magnetism in roller coasters, explore the mechanics of simple machines, and more! This is the ultimate field trip you won't want to miss!

The Education programming is self-paced. Visit STEAM Village to explore 5 different learning activities throughout the day.

Happens on Select Dates, March 27 - May 22, 2026 | 10 AM - 2 PM in Thrill Zone

• March 27

• April 8, 9, 10, 17, 24

• May 1, 8, 15, 22, 2026

Education days are open to passholders, small groups, and the general public. Register in advance to ensure access to Meteorology Day & to receive special pricing.

Age: All Ages

Cost: $39.27 per person (includes park admission and STEAM activities)

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Homeschool Resource Fairs happening at three library branches! Check out homeschool-friendly vendors offering curriculum, enrichment programs, and community resources on the following dates and locations.

• North Country Regional Library April 15, 2-4pm

• Pineville Library, May 1, 1-3pm

• Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library, May 14, 12-2pm

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE

Visit North Carolina’s largest STEAM festival at the Woodlawn School! This popular spring event attracts visitors from across the Southeast US every year!

Featuring hands-on activities created by teachers, students, local universities, museums, community organizations, and businesses, STEAMfest offers visitors an exciting look into the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

With vendors, food trucks, entertainment, and more, it’s a fun and educational way to spend your Sunday afternoon! Admission is free, however advanced registration is required to save your spot.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE

Take advantage of Education Days at Carowinds, where kids of all ages can have fun and learn the science behind their favorite rides! Students will engage in interactive stations covering Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics when they test their knowledge with hands-on activities. Experiment with circuits, discover the role of magnetism in roller coasters, explore the mechanics of simple machines, and more! This is the ultimate field trip you won't want to miss!

The Education programming is self-paced. Visit STEAM Village to explore 5 different learning activities throughout the day.

Happens on Select Dates, March 27 - May 22, 2026 | 10 AM - 2 PM in Thrill Zone

• March 27

• April 8, 9, 10, 17, 24

• May 1, 8, 15, 22, 2026

Education days are open to passholders, small groups, and the general public. Register in advance to ensure access to Meteorology Day & to receive special pricing.

Age: All Ages

Cost: $39.27 per person (includes park admission and STEAM activities)

Take advantage of Education Days at Carowinds, where kids of all ages can have fun and learn the science behind their favorite rides! Students will engage in interactive stations covering Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics when they test their knowledge with hands-on activities. Experiment with circuits, discover the role of magnetism in roller coasters, explore the mechanics of simple machines, and more! This is the ultimate field trip you won't want to miss!

The Education programming is self-paced. Visit STEAM Village to explore 5 different learning activities throughout the day.

Happens on Select Dates, March 27 - May 22, 2026 | 10 AM - 2 PM in Thrill Zone

• March 27

• April 8, 9, 10, 17, 24

• May 1, 8, 15, 22, 2026

Education days are open to passholders, small groups, and the general public. Register in advance to ensure access to Meteorology Day & to receive special pricing.

Age: All Ages

Cost: $39.27 per person (includes park admission and STEAM activities)

Take advantage of Education Days at Carowinds, where kids of all ages can have fun and learn the science behind their favorite rides! Students will engage in interactive stations covering Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics when they test their knowledge with hands-on activities. Experiment with circuits, discover the role of magnetism in roller coasters, explore the mechanics of simple machines, and more! This is the ultimate field trip you won't want to miss!

The Education programming is self-paced. Visit STEAM Village to explore 5 different learning activities throughout the day.

Happens on Select Dates, March 27 - May 22, 2026 | 10 AM - 2 PM in Thrill Zone

• March 27

• April 8, 9, 10, 17, 24

• May 1, 8, 15, 22, 2026

Education days are open to passholders, small groups, and the general public. Register in advance to ensure access to Meteorology Day & to receive special pricing.

Age: All Ages

Cost: $39.27 per person (includes park admission and STEAM activities)

Take advantage of Education Days at Carowinds, where kids of all ages can have fun and learn the science behind their favorite rides! Students will engage in interactive stations covering Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics when they test their knowledge with hands-on activities. Experiment with circuits, discover the role of magnetism in roller coasters, explore the mechanics of simple machines, and more! This is the ultimate field trip you won't want to miss!

The Education programming is self-paced. Visit STEAM Village to explore 5 different learning activities throughout the day.

Happens on Select Dates, March 27 - May 22, 2026 | 10 AM - 2 PM in Thrill Zone

• March 27

• April 8, 9, 10, 17, 24

• May 1, 8, 15, 22, 2026

Education days are open to passholders, small groups, and the general public. Register in advance to ensure access to Meteorology Day & to receive special pricing.

Age: All Ages

Cost: $39.27 per person (includes park admission and STEAM activities)

Save the Date for the Hemby campus annual Homeschool Expo!

Learn more about the YScholars programs and meet local vendors offering homeschool classes, programs, and activities throughout the Charlotte area.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE

Feel the marshmallow magic and ask for s'more! No registration needed, just drop by the fire pit most* Fridays this winter to whip up your favorite gooey, toasty fireside delight and soak in the cozy campfire vibes.

Dates include: Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 2026 ongoing 10:30am-12:00pm each date.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE unlimited openings

Feel the marshmallow magic and ask for s'more! No registration needed, just drop by the fire pit most* Fridays this winter to whip up your favorite gooey, toasty fireside delight and soak in the cozy campfire vibes.

Dates include: Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 2026 ongoing 10:30am-12:00pm each date.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE unlimited openings

Celebrate Presidents’ Day and learn about the 7th President, who was born in the Waxhaws! Crafts and activities for kids included!

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE for kids & students

Feel the marshmallow magic and ask for s'more! No registration needed, just drop by the fire pit most* Fridays this winter to whip up your favorite gooey, toasty fireside delight and soak in the cozy campfire vibes.

Dates include: Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 2026 ongoing 10:30am-12:00pm each date.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE unlimited openings

Feel the marshmallow magic and ask for s'more! No registration needed, just drop by the fire pit most* Fridays this winter to whip up your favorite gooey, toasty fireside delight and soak in the cozy campfire vibes.

Dates include: Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 2026 ongoing 10:30am-12:00pm each date.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE unlimited openings

Feel the marshmallow magic and ask for s'more! No registration needed, just drop by the fire pit most* Fridays this winter to whip up your favorite gooey, toasty fireside delight and soak in the cozy campfire vibes.

Dates include: Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 2026 ongoing 10:30am-12:00pm each date.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE unlimited openings

Feel the marshmallow magic and ask for s'more! No registration needed, just drop by the fire pit most* Fridays this winter to whip up your favorite gooey, toasty fireside delight and soak in the cozy campfire vibes.

Dates include: Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 2026 ongoing 10:30am-12:00pm each date.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE unlimited openings

Join us on January 19 for a family-friendly celebration honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The day begins at 10 AM with a special children’s storytime reflecting on Dr. King’s life, followed by additional storytimes at 11:15 AM and 12 PM.

Throughout the event, families can also enjoy hands-on arts and crafts inspired by Dr. King, along with engaging performances.

Age: All Ages

Cost: FREE

Feel the marshmallow magic and ask for s'more! No registration needed, just drop by the fire pit most* Fridays this winter to whip up your favorite gooey, toasty fireside delight and soak in the cozy campfire vibes.

Dates include: Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 2026 ongoing 10:30am-12:00pm each date.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE unlimited openings

Feel the marshmallow magic and ask for s'more! No registration needed, just drop by the fire pit most* Fridays this winter to whip up your favorite gooey, toasty fireside delight and soak in the cozy campfire vibes.

Dates include: Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27; 2026 ongoing 10:30am-12:00pm each date.

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE unlimited openings

Celebrate Kwanzaa and the principle of Kujichagulia (self-determination) at this family-friendly cultural event. Enjoy a holiday marketplace featuring local entrepreneurs, a Kwanzaa table presentation exploring the holiday’s history and traditions, live performances, family photos, and hands-on arts & crafts. It’s a vibrant community celebration honoring heritage, creativity, and the joyful spirit of the season.

Age: All Ages

Cost: FREE

Get creative with this all-ages clay workshop sponsored by Culture Blocks! Participants will enjoy a hands-on experience working with clay. No prior experience needed.

All materials are provided, and projects will be left at the library to be glazed, fired, and returned for pickup at a later date.

Advance registration is required, as space is limited. Registration opens December 1 at 7:00 AM so remember to mark your calendar!

Age: All Ages

Cost: FREE

This December, The Ballantyne transforms into a magical destination where holiday artistry meets heartfelt giving. Gingerbread Lane invites families and visitors to experience the wonder of the season through an extraordinary display of gingerbread masterpieces, each one a testament to creativity and community spirit. This isn't just a display-it's an interactive celebration where your participation helps determine the most beloved creations while supporting a cause close to our hearts: Atrium Health Levine Children's Hospital. At the heart of this magical experience stands our charming life-size gingerbread house, the Cocoa House, where the aroma of rich hot cocoa and festive holiday beverages fills the air. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM December 14-28 (excluding December 25th)

Winter Solstice Celebration at Reedy Creek!
Say goodbye to the darkest days of winter and welcome the light’s return! Celebrate the solstice with seasonal stories, a special solstice craft, and a short nature walk to observe the beauty of this brief winter day.

All ages are welcome! Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Please register both adults and children in advance.

Registration opens November 1, 2025

Age: All Ages

Cost: FREE

This December, The Ballantyne transforms into a magical destination where holiday artistry meets heartfelt giving. Gingerbread Lane invites families and visitors to experience the wonder of the season through an extraordinary display of gingerbread masterpieces, each one a testament to creativity and community spirit. This isn't just a display-it's an interactive celebration where your participation helps determine the most beloved creations while supporting a cause close to our hearts: Atrium Health Levine Children's Hospital. At the heart of this magical experience stands our charming life-size gingerbread house, the Cocoa House, where the aroma of rich hot cocoa and festive holiday beverages fills the air. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM December 14-28 (excluding December 25th)

*Registration Encouraged, but not required.*

Celebrate the holidays by enjoying traditional Latin-American songs and more during this special concert featuring the Café Amaretto Band - Ana Lucía Divins (Vocals), Carlos Crespo (Guitar), Edgar Marcano (Percussion), Carlos Baez (Bass) & Tom Hanchett (Violin). This concert is part of the “Feel it with Music” series, a program sponsored by ASC’s Culture Blocks - a community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County.

Celebra las fiestas navideñas disfrutando de canciones tradicionales latinoamericanas y más en este especial concierto con Café Amaretto Band – Ana Lucía Divins (voz), Carlos Crespo (guitarra), Edgar Marcano (percusión), Carlos Báez (bajo) y Tom Hanchett (violín). Este concierto es parte de la serie “Siéntelo con Música”, un programa patrocinado por Culture Blocks de ASC, una colaboración comunitaria financiada por el condado de Mecklenburg.

The Museum of the Waxhaws is excited to announce our 2025 Holiday Event! 

Join us for this FREE COMMUNITY EVENT on Saturday, December 13th 2025 from 10am – 4pm!

Enjoy living history, a holiday vendor market, food trucks, pictures with Santa, and more!

Age: All ages

Cost: FREE Admission