Wild animals come out at night

The Conservators' Center, a nonprofit animal rescue home to a wide range of creatures, is hosting a series of special holiday tours called "Winter in the Wild." It just might be what your family needs when your own wild things are getting a bit too rambunctious on these inky nights.

Running through Jan. 1, the tours start at 4 p.m., and visitors will have the privilege of meeting the animals by the glow of white lights. The lions, tigers and wolves will show off their wintery coats. Like many animals at the center, they grow more active around dusk and into the night. The center is north of Mebane, about an 80-minute drive from Raleigh.

Visitors will be kept warm with complimentary hot chocolate, apple cider and baked goods, all available before, during and after the tour.

"Winter in the Wild" is open to all ages but is geared to children 6 years and older.

The price is $15 per person, $10 for children 2-12. All tickets must be reserved in advance; for reservations and driving directions, visit www.conservatorscenter.org. Tickets often sell out.

Fall fun for kids today

For a younger crowd, Marbles Kids Museum is inviting children today to run off some of that pumpkin pie with a day full of festive-themed activities, such as trotting like a turkey, painting with pine cones, football flicking and more. Kids can also decorate their own mini-float for the Marbles Day Parade, which takes place at 3:30 p.m.

For details, visit www. marbleskidsmuseum.org .