This May (2026), two longtime coastal science destinations are celebrating major milestones along North Carolina’s southern coast. The Museum of Coastal Carolina is marking 35 years of marine and coastal education, while the Ingram Planetarium celebrates 25 years of bringing the wonders of the night sky to visitors of all ages.
Founded by Stuart and Louise Ingram and operated together through the Ocean Isle Museum Foundation, the Museum and Planetarium have spent decades creating interactive science experiences that connect people with the coast, the ocean and the universe beyond.
To celebrate “35 Years of Sea and 25 Years of Sky,” the two institutions have planned a month-long series of activities, with special anniversary events taking place May 23–26.
At the Planetarium, guests can enjoy a free Star Party Birthday Celebration on May 23 from 6–8:30 p.m. The evening will include telescope viewing, hands-on activities in the Science Hall and birthday cake under the stars.
On May 25, the Museum of Coastal Carolina will host a family-friendly birthday party featuring hands-on crafts and games inspired by the Museum’s history, including birthday hat making, birthday cards and “Pin the Fin on the Shark.” Cake will be served at noon, and activities are included with Museum admission.
Throughout the month, visitors can also explore photo exhibits and artifacts from past exhibits and collections, offering a nostalgic look back at how the Museum and Planetarium have evolved over the years. Beginning May 18, the Museum will feature activities inspired by some of its original exhibits.
The celebration also highlights the future of accessibility and education at the Museum. Proceeds from the sold-out Ocean Isle Museum Golf Classic and Auction on May 1 support the Elevating Access project, which will improve accessibility through the construction of an addition and elevator connecting guests to exhibit and learning spaces currently accessible only by stairs.
The anniversary weekend concludes May 26 with a special edition of the Museum’s long-running Sandbar Lecture Series. Ocean Isle Beach Mayor Debbie Smith will share memories of growing up in one of the town’s first year-round families after Hurricane Hazel in 1954 and reflect on the community’s transformation through the decades.
Together, the Museum of Coastal Carolina and Ingram Planetarium continue to inspire curiosity through interactive, science-based experiences that encourage visitors to explore the unique ecosystems, history and natural wonders of coastal North Carolina.
Learn more and plan your visit at Museum of Coastal Carolina & Ingram Planetarium.
