Free 'spooktacular' aerospace fun during Family Day

Published Oct. 15, 2013
By Sarah Swan
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

DAYTON, Ohio -- Learn fun aerospace principles through Halloween-themed activities during Family Day from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Oct. 26 at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. Visitors are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes, and those who participate in activities will receive goody bags with candy and aviation trading cards (while supplies last).

Designed for children and adults of all ages, Family Day offers several hands-on opportunities for all to enjoy. This month, visitors have a variety of aerospace stations to choose from, including an opportunity to learn about air vortices by "shooting" at Halloween targets, a chance to learn about density by "bobbing" for apples, and an activity that teaches about sound waves with screaming cups and balloons. Participants also can try their hand at Halloween Skee-Ball and a jack-o-lantern bean bag toss. These free activities take place in various locations throughout the museum from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

"Storytime" begins at 11:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. in the Early Years Gallery. Preschool and primary-grade children are invited to sit under the wings of airplanes and listen to Halloween aviation stories and then make a jack-o-lantern-faced paper kite.

Other activities include face painting and a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt. The Aerospace Adventure will allow visitors to build and fly a Halloween ring glider anytime between 1:30-3 p.m. in the event space near the Korean War Gallery.

The event is free, and visitors of all ages may participate in these aviation-related activities located throughout the museum galleries. No advanced reservations are necessary. Call the Education Division at (937) 255-4646 for additional information.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located on Springfield Street, six miles northeast of downtown Dayton. It is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day). Admission and parking are free. For more information about the museum, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

NOTE TO PUBLIC: For more information, please contact the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Education Division at (937) 255-4646.

NOTE TO MEDIA: For more information, please contact Sarah Swan at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Public Affairs Division at (937) 255-1283.

Screening at Entrance
All visitors may be screened with a metal detector upon entry. In addition all bags are subject to search and may be placed through an X-Ray machine. Weapons are not permitted including pocket knives and firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons.
Prohibited Items
Prohibited Items:
- Firearms*
- Knives
- Box cutters
- Food and Soda Drinks
- Alcohol
- Coolers

* Firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons, are specifically prohibited in Federal facilities in accordance with 18 USC §930 (c)

Permitted Items:
- Water bottles (clear, sealed bottle, up to 20 oz.)
- Purses
- Camera bags
- Diaper bags
- Strollers
- Service animals

Please note the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is not responsible for items left in vehicles.
Click here for frequently asked questions regarding items permitted inside the museum.
Visitor Photography Notice
Notice: Visitors may be filmed, photographed or recorded by the U.S. Air Force for educational and promotional uses, including for posting on public websites and social media.
Individuals are permitted to take their own photographs or videos while touring the museum.