Biomes After Dark: Crafting, Creatures, and a Snake Named Buddy

Looking for a quirky, hands-on way to spend a Thursday night? The Biomes Marine Biology Center in Kingston has you covered with their new Biomes After Dark series. This recent addition to New England’s only private marine education facility and aquarium offers rotating workshops – everything from terrarium building to making DIY plushies – and I had the chance to attend the inaugural papermaking session. Best of all, it’s BYOB, so you can bring your favorite drink while you get creative.

I’ll admit, I’m not exactly the arts-and-crafts type. I’ve tried painting, paper flowers, and even struggled with producing a decent final product in a coloring book, always ending up with something that could generously be called “abstract” – but even I had a blast. The night took me out of my comfort zone into a relaxed environment where the fun of the process was more important than the final product.

Papermaking is surprisingly meditative. The staff guided us through every step, from soaking the pulp to pressing it into sheets. My final work wasn’t exactly a masterpiece, but the experience itself was enjoyable and relaxing. We all shared tips, laughed at our less-than-perfect results, and even worked on a communal paper art project. There’s something really rewarding about making something by hand, even if it’s a little messy.

What makes Biomes After Dark special is the immersive environment. While working on my paper, the staff happily shared stories about the marine animals at the center. From shrimp to sharks, the center is home to a variety of creatures found in Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The staff’s enthusiasm was infectious, especially when talking about Biscuit and Gravy, the center’s two baby octopuses. Biscuit, in particular, wasn’t too eager to leave her cozy castle in the tank, and when she finally surfaced, it was clear she wasn’t thrilled it wasn’t mealtime yet. This behind-the-scenes look at the animals’ personalities added an extra layer to the experience.

Now, I’ve always had a deep-seated fear of snakes, which might stem from watching Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets a little too young, but there I was, holding a huge ball python named Buddy (yes, Buddy); these snakes get their name from their tendency to coil up into a ball shape as a defensive measure. Buddy might just be my new favorite snake. Another animal encounter highlight was meeting Darwin the giant tortoise. At 26 years old, Darwin is something of a local legend at Biomes, and he’s about to celebrate his birthday there on March 15. The staff mentioned that they’re planning a little party for him, and it’s hard not to love the idea of a tortoise birthday bash.

The Biomes After Dark series is a fun, unconventional way to spend your evening, whether solo, with friends, or as a date night. Each session features a different craft, so there are plenty of chances to try something new. And with the added bonus of learning about marine life from passionate staff, it’s an experience that’s both creative and educational. Whether you’re a crafting pro or just after a fun night out, it’s sure to create lasting memories.

Biomes Marine Biology Center

6640 Post Road, North Kingstown

BiomesCenter.com, 401-885-4690