Where: N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences’ Nature Research Center, 121 W. Jones St., Raleigh

When: 5 p.m. Friday

Cost: Free

Details: 919-733-7450; naturalsciences.org or naturesearch.org

Museum Opening: Where can I eat at 4 a.m.?

The museum will be open around the clock to explore, but the Daily Planet Cafe in the new wing and the Acro Cafe in the main building will serve food from 5 p.m. to 2.a.m. They will serve beverages overnight and resume food service at 9 a.m. But don’t despair: food trucks, tents, trailers & carts abound. Here’s a list of the vendors, some with a sense of what’s on the menu, and a list of those serving into the night:

Friday & Saturday

Kona Ice - shaved ice in flavors from pina colado to tiger’s blood

Cafe Prost - fresh, all-natural soft pretzels with various mustards, and savory or sweet gourmet toppings

D&J Concession

Locopops - Mexican popsicles, dairy or water-based, with flavors like mango chile and chocolate brownie

Friday only

Baguetteaboutit - Italian sausages wrapped in French baguettes with sauces like basil tomato vinaigrette and sharp cheddar

Krispy Kreme

Triangle Raw Foods - raw, gluten-free, dairy-free meals like Asian marinated kale and blueberry tarts

Saturday only

Angie’s Italian Ice

24 Hours

Captain Ponchos Tacos

Hibachi Xpress - Chinese food

Caribou Coffee

Chick-N-Que - Chopped chicken eastern-style N.C. barbecue; “The Big Bird” is a marinated Ostrich steak with grilled green peppers, onions and smoked provolone on a pita.

American Meltdown - melts and grilled cheese sandwiches; look for a French onion melt.

D&J Concessions (tent and ice cream)

Parlez-Vous Crepe - sweet & savory crepes, vegetarian friendly; fresh, organic ingredients. Kids like the cheese and Nutella versions; there’s even a Fluffernutter crepe.

Groovy Dogs

Kona Chameleon - Larry’s Beans coffee (hot & cold), lattes (iced & iced chai), cappuccinos, hot chocolates and fruit smoothies

It’s 2 a.m. I’m not ready to go home. Now what?

Well, the AV Geeks – those avid collectors of vintage celluloid – are hosting a Creature Feature marathon at the museum’s WRAL 3D Theater from 1 a.m. to 7 a.m. Among the clips are creepy classics “Plan 9 From Outer Space,” “Evil Brain from Outer Space” and “Attack of the Monsters.” That should keep you awake.

Weather Report*

Friday: Partly cloudy with a high of 76; 10 percent chance of rain.

Saturday: Potential for severe thunderstorms and a high of 77; 60 percent chance of rain.

*subject to change

• No strollers will be allowed in the buildings; stroller check-in will be available.

• Water is free if you bring your own refillable bottle.

• CAT buses will run free all day Saturday as part of “Free Fare Day” in honor of Earth Day.

• R-line buses, which are also free, will operate on their regular schedule, from 7 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.

• Raleigh Rickshaws run until 5 p.m. Friday and until 3 a.m. Saturday.

• While there is plenty of parking in downtown lots and on the street, the museum encourages visitors to ride their bikes. Bike racks will be available on-site.

• There will be children’s activities and crafts.