Gwinnett Daily Post

BUFORD -- You may be hitting the hay when the moon comes out, but there are many creatures who are just waking up for the eerie hours of night.

On Friday, the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center hosts the Creatures of the Night Festival from 6 to 9 p.m. to teach attendees about the animals who come out when the sun goes down, including an owl and an opossum.

"Families and groups will have lots of fun at this event while learning about the creatures that come alive when the lights go out," said Jason West, director of programming and development at the GEHC.

During the evening, families can participate in an indoor scavenger hunt, learn about nocturnal animals during a class, dig through owl pellets and watch e-planetarium shows. There are night hikes available for both children and adults.

For the Halloween season, GEHC created a "green" pumpkin competition. The entries are on display for the crowds to look at, vote for and admire during the event.

"We are encouraging guests to use their imagination to come up with an eco-themed or nature carving for their jack-o-lanterns," West said. "Their creations will be displayed and judged by staff and visitors on the enchanted pumpkin walk at the Creatures of the Night Festival."

Admittance to the festival is included in the price of admission to the center, which ranges from $3.50 to $10.50. GEHC members are admitted free. For more information, visit www.gwinnettEHC.org.