Wells Fargo Free First Thursday
Thursday, April 2, 2009, 5 - 9 p.m.
Once a month, the Museum stays open late-for free! Enjoy the Museum's Great Gallery, Personal Courage Wing, Space: Exploring the New Frontier exhibit, flight simulators and more from 5 - 9 p.m. courtesy of Wells Fargo. Museum Store and Wings Café will also remain open for the extended hours on this night.

International Year of Astronomy Lecture: "Red Stars, Blue Stars, Old Stars, New Stars"
Saturday, April 4, 2 p.m., William M. Allen Theater
In recognition of the 400th anniversary of Galileo Galilei's first celestial observation, 2009 has been designated the International Year of Astronomy (IYA). The Museum will continue its celebration of the IYA with a lecture from University of Washington Astronomy Professor Dr. Julie Lutz on the evolution of stars.

Bank of America Weekend Family Workshop: Kites on the Fly!
Saturdays and Sundays, April 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26
Did you know that people have been flying kites for over 2,000 years? From delicate kites made out of leaves to unique kites used for fishing to large kites that can actually lift people into the air, the kite has played an important role in aviation history. Visitors are invited to hear the story of these incredible yet simple flying objects, then make and decorate their own kite to fly at home!

American Fighter Aces Panel
Saturday, April 18, 2 p.m., William M. Allen Theater
The Museum of Flight is once again honored to host a panel of World War II fighter aces. Maj. William H. "Bill" Allen flew P-38 Lightnings and P-51 Mustangs during the war. Allen will tell how on one flight he was credited with five air combat victories, which made him an "ace in a day." Lt. Gen. George Loving initially flew Spitfires, then transitioned to the P-51B Mustang with which he scored five victories. Capt. David C. Wilhelm graduated from Yale before training as a pilot and being sent to the Mediterranean Theater. He is credited with six confirmed victories.

Hops and Props: An Aviation-Themed Craft Beer Tasting Event
Saturday, April 18, 7 - 10 p.m.
Now in its seventh year, "Hops and Props" combines the Museum's exciting environment with the best of brews, music by the Dudley Manlove Quartet and catered food from Catering by McCormick and Schmick's. 60 breweries will be on hand, so guests can sample the finest examples of the brewers' art while expert brew masters answer their every question.Tickets for this event are sold out. Designated driver tickets will be available in the Museum Store the night of the event. All attendees must be 21+ years of age. Valid photo identification required for entry.

Tip-to-Tail Tour: Nakajima Ki-43-Ila Hayabusa Fighter Aircraft
Sunday, April 19, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Museum docent Bill McCutcheon with a presentation on the Hayabusa-which is Japanese for "Peregrine Falcon." Also known as the "Oscar" by the Allies, the Hayabusa was the most important World War II fighter of the Japanese Army Air Force. The aircraft is located in the Museum's Personal Courage Wing.