Cranbrook Institute of Science offers a variety of exciting events for children, families and adults. We have seasonal events at major holidays, themed family events, overnights and evening programs, 21+ events, and more!
Explore the options below!
Member Exclusive Preview of Newest Exhibition, Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs
September 27, 2025
12:00pm to 5:00pm
Institute members are invited to be the first to explore our newest traveling exhibition, Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs.
8th Annual Women Rock Science
October 8, 2025
6:00pm to 9:00pm
You’re invited to our 8th Annual Women Rock Science Fundraising Event! Join us for an evening celebrating women in STEAM, igniting curiosity, and honoring our 2025 Honorees. Proceeds raised help support our outreach programs for under-resourced Pre-K-12 students throughout Michigan.
Monster Mash (21+)
October 24, 2025
7:00pm to 10:00pm
Join us for a rollicking 21+ Halloween celebration with specialty cocktails, liquid nitrogen ice cream, a costume contest, Halloween games and trivia, mini monster lectures, and much more!
Halloween Science
Saturday, October 25, 2025 - 10:00am - 1:00pm OR 2:30pm to 5:30pm
Costumes Encouraged!
A host of not-too-scary activities and shows highlight Halloween Science at the Institute! Take a fun ride in the Acheson Planetarium, experience our electrifying scientist, hear creepy stories, see a pumpkin hurled through the air from our massive trebuchet, take the bug eating challenge, indulge in ice cream made right before your eyes, and much more! Amid the Halloween decor at the Institute numerous experiments, make-and-take arts & crafts and activity stations await young and old alike. While you explore the haunted hallways, check out the newly opened Permian Monsters exhibit.
Don’t wait! Reserve your tickets today!
Pricing for pre-registered attendees:
$23 per person for members
$27 per person for non-members
$5 additional per person for walk-in attendees
Walk ups welcome; however not guaranteed. Pre-registration is recommended.
Pre-Registration closes @5pm 10/22.
For questions, email us at cisreservations@cranbrook.edu or call 248-645-3210.
Winter Solstice
December 20, 2025
11:00am to 5:00pm
Celebrate the longest night – and the return of the sun -- with traditional and newly-imagined activities, seasonal treats and a culminating Lantern Parade. Held in partnership with Cranbrook Art Museum, your ticket provides access to activities at both museums!
Check back soon for more information!
Jupiter January
January 16, 2026
7:00pm to 10:00pm
This January, Jupiter shines its brightest as Earth passes between it and the Sun. Join astronomy experts at the Institute for an unforgettable viewing experience with cutting-edge technology.
Check back soon for more information!
Member Exclusive Preview of New Exhibit, Mystery of the Mayan Medallion
January 31, 2026
12:00pm to 5:00pm
Institute members are invited to be the first to explore our newest traveling exhibition, Mystery of the Mayan Medallion.
Check back soon for more information!
Murder at the Museum (21+ only)
January 31, 2026
7:00pm to 10:00pm
Join us for a murder mystery night of intrigue! Team up with friends, put your sleuthing skills to the test, and help crack the case.
Check back soon for more information!