JACKSON, MS –The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science invites adults to ditch the drama and embrace the wild at Later Gator, a one‑of‑a‑kind Valentine’s season event on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Designed exclusively for guests 18 and up, this after‑hours experience blends humor, wildlife, and interactive fun - no roses required!
Guests can finally get closure by naming a fish after an ex (or any walking red flag) and watching it become an unforgettable snack for the museum’s resident gators. No ex? No problem. There’s always someone who qualifies as gator bait.
In addition to the main event, attendees will enjoy refreshments throughout the evening, up‑close animal encounters, a Valentine‑making station (conveniently located next to a paper shredder), a themed photo booth, interactive activities, and access to the Giants of the Ice Age exhibit.
TICKETS: Get your tickets today and say goodbye, get a laugh, and let the gators handle the rest! Advance tickets are required and sales close on February 11 at 5 p.m. Tickets are $25 and include event admission and naming rights to one fish. Merchandise will also be available for purchase during the event. Tickets will not be available at the door.
ABOUT THE MUSEUM: The Museum is located at 2148 Riverside Drive in Jackson, Mississippi. Regular Museum admission is: $9 for adults, $7 for youth ages 3-18, and $8 for senior citizens ages 60 and up. Visitors can get more details about the Museum and plan their museum adventure at www.mdwfp.com/museum or by calling 601-576-6000. Connect with the Museum: www.facebook.com/msnaturalscience and www.instagram.com/MSScienceMuseum.