Friday Night Science

Because you’re old enough to sign your own permission slip.

Friday Night Science is a quarterly, adults-only workshop series at WaterWorks where you can get hands-on with real science. No textbooks, no tests— just weird, wonderful, wild discovery.

Each session dives into a new topic— perfect for young professionals, science lovers, and anyone who’s ever said, “Why didn’t we do this in school?”

Upcoming Workshops

June 2026


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Nocturnal Insects:
Bug Light Disctrict

Date: Friday, June 26, 2026
Time: 7 – 9 PM
Location: WaterWorks Environmental Learning Lab, 5514 US Hwy 31 S, Hartselle, AL 35640

Details

Stay tuned for more information!

Archive

Take a look at our past Friday Night Science classes!

April 2026: Fire After Dark

Participants learned about prescribed fire and participated in a wetland burn using drip torches and other forestry tools.

March 2026: Butterfly Pinning Flutter to Frame

Participants learned how to relax, pin, and spread butterfly specimens using techniques similar to those used in museum collections, leaving with a beautifully prepared specimen.

December 2025: Microplastics

This workshop explored the growing issue of microplastic pollution. Participants learned how scientists filter and examine water samples for microplastics and were encouraged to bring in their own water samples to test and analyze during the workshop.

October 2025: Halloween Insect Pinning

A seasonal version of our insect pinning workshop featuring bat wing cicadas and sawtooth beetles. Participants practiced pinning specimens while celebrating Halloween with a costume contest and “bug snacks,” including edible crickets, cookies made with cricket flour, and gummy worms.

July 2025: Beetle Pinning

Participants explored the incredible diversity of beetles and learned basic specimen preparation techniques. The workshop introduced participants to beetle anatomy and the role beetles play in ecosystems while giving them a chance to examine and work with real specimens.