The Spooky Mad Science Expo will celebrate its 10th anniversary Saturday, Oct. 18, transforming the Patrick Henry Recreation Center into what organizers call a “STEAM wonderland.”
The free event, running from 3 to 7 p.m. at 4653 Taney Ave., expects to draw families and students for hands-on science activities with a Halloween theme. A rain date is scheduled for Oct. 25.
“Ten years in the making, this isn’t just a science fair, it’s a movement,” said Zohreh Khoshnamak, CEO of Chrysalis Development Group, which presents the expo with the city’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities. “We’re building a space where creativity meets discovery, and where young minds can see themselves as future scientists, engineers, and changemakers.”
The expo will feature more than 100 interactive exhibits and activities designed for ages ranging from toddlers to teens. Programming includes live science demonstrations, musical performances, food trucks and volunteer opportunities for teens to earn community service hours.
Participating organizations include NASA, the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Virginia Tech, AT&T and the Alexandria Fire Department. The University of Maryland, United States Naval Academy and LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C., are also scheduled to participate.
A costume parade dubbed “Science on Parade” will precede the main event from 2 to 3 p.m. around the recreation complex. Participants must pre-register at alexandriava.gov/rpca/science-on-parade and can enter the expo’s costume contest.
The event targets STEAM education — science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics — as a way to engage young people in scientific careers. Organizers describe it as one of the region’s largest STEAM outreach events.
Additional programming includes a Teen Science Café, youth podcasting opportunities and what organizers promise as “surprise demos” throughout the afternoon.
More information is available at chrysalisdg.org/spooky-mad-science-expo.
