The University of Nebraska State Museum will host a weeklong series of fun, safe activities to celebrate Halloween. The events, listed below, run from Oct. 28 to Nov. 1.

All university events observe the most recent public health measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic. These include the use of facial coverings, hand washing/use of hand sanitizer, and observing social distancing. Learn more about public health protocols on campus.

Virtual Costume Contest

Wear a costume to the museum in Morrill Hall during Halloween Week, take a picture in costume by your favorite exhibit, share the picture on social media and tag Morrill Hall for the chance to win a trick-or-treat prize bag.

First prize is a collection of natural history items from the Discovery Gift Shop and a one-year membership. The second prize is a collection of natural history items from the gift shop.

Museum visitors in costume during Halloween Week will receive a 10% discount in the gift shop. All visitors who say “trick-or-treat” to shop staff will receive a pre-made treat bag.

Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt

Visitors will need to be on the lookout as a number of natural history pumpkins hidden throughout the museum. The individual who finds the most in each visitor group will hold bragging rights over their friends.

Spooky Skeleton Science: A Virtual Family Event

The museum will hold a spooky, skeletal adventure — virtually and in-person — from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Oct. 31. Led by the museum’s education team, the event will feature a close-up look at skeletons that line the hallways of Morrill Hall and some that are off-display. It will also include a skeleton craft, a chance to meet a museum scientist that works with skeletons, and the chance to see a mummified cat.

A limited number of tickets are available for the in-person part of the event. Remote participants will receive a Zoom link. Tickets, which are available here, are $5 for members and $7 for non-members.

Learn more about this and other events at the University of Nebraska State Museum.