The Annual Atlanta Science Festival Unveils 2022 Programming

Atlanta Science Festival 2022

Atlanta’s preeminent science celebration announces more than 100 in-person and online events taking place March 12-26

 

February 1, 2022 (Atlanta) — Atlanta Science Festival (ASF), the city’s premier celebration of all things science, returns March 12-26. Science enthusiasts of all ages can experience more than 100 interactive and educational events featuring in-person, COVID-safe activities and exclusive online content. The Festival culminates in the Exploration Expo, a big science party in Piedmont Park.

“Now in our ninth year, the Atlanta Science Festival has become synonymous with engaging and accessible science exploration for all ages, while celebrating diversity and our city as a science hub,” says Meisa Salaita, executive co-director of Science ATL – the engineers of the Atlanta Science Festival. 

The 2022 edition of the Atlanta Science Festival gives kids and adults alike the opportunity to dive into a range of topics from environmental science, earth and space, and animals to science and the arts, science and society, and health and the human body. Nature walks, creature encounters, hands-on experiments, science-themed performances, and much more pack the two-week event calendar. 

A few highlights taking place during the 2022 Atlanta Science Festival include:

  • Drive-In Demos: Chemistry From Your CarEmory chemists present a live-action chemistry demo show featuring fire, ice, bubbles, and a cloud. The audience watches from the comfort of their vehicles.
  • 11 Alive StormTrackers: The Science Behind Tracking Thunderstorms Explore the science behind storms and storm tracking, including thunderstorm life cycle and forecasting, and how radar allows us to see a slice of a thunderstorm.
  • Conversations in Creativity This thought-provoking discussion about the intersection of art and science features Atlanta-based artist and architect Amy Landesberg, Georgia Tech mathematician/physicist Elisabetta Matsumoto, and representatives of Science Gallery at Emory University, a new exhibition gallery where science and art collide.

Events take place at venues throughout Metro Atlanta, while technology allows science lovers from around the world to experience online events. Many Atlanta Science Festival events are free, and some require a nominal fee. Each in-person event will have specific COIVD-19 safety precautions in place depending on the setting.

The Exploration Expo, Atlanta’s biggest family science event, closes the Festival with a bang. Curious kids and adults descend upon Piedmont Park to experience interactive science booths and live science presentations. (10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 26. Free. Piedmont Park, at the intersection of Charles Allen Drive and 10th Street, Atlanta.)

“Today science is more relevant than ever,” Salaita says. “And just as science evolves, our Festival continues to grow and expand in ways we never thought possible.”

For additional press releases, a full schedule, updates, photos, and more, visit the Press Room at: AtlantaScienceFestival.org/press-room.

Interviews are available upon request.

About the Atlanta Science Festival 

In its ninth year, the Atlanta Science Festival is a two-week celebration of science and technology. Taking place March 12-26, 2022, it will feature more than 100 interactive and educational events featuring in-person, COVID-safe activities and exclusive online content. Kids and adults alike can dive into a range of topics from coding and astronomy to nature walks and science/art mashups. The Atlanta Science Festival is engineered by Science ATL and 50+ community partners, with major support from founders Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the Metro Atlanta Chamber, and sponsors Delta, UPS, International Paper, NCR Foundation, and others. To learn more, visit AtlantaScienceFestival.org.

Online Events

2022 Online EventsLooking for fun and engaging online opportunities to learn more about a variety of scientific topics? These 2022 Atlanta Science Festival events are all available online! Start planning your Atlanta Science Festival experience with these events, taking place March 12-26.

What’s Up in the Night Sky? | March 12th 11:00 AM

Presented by Georgia State University

Explore the universe from home and imagine life as an alien as you investigate the night sky with and create your own alien.  Scientists from Georgia State University’s Physics and Astronomy Department will lead through a tour of the universe via an online application and provide instructions for exploring the effects of light pollution and creating an alien life form. All you need are basic materials from home and your imagination.

Register here!

Build-a-Brain | March 12th 11:00 AM (multiple dates)

Presented by Georgia State University, Neuroscience Institute, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience

Our amazing brains evolved here on earth along with other animals’ brains. How do brains allow humans to use tools, rats to use smell to navigate, and birds FLY? If you could build the brain of your own imaginary creature, what would it look like? Join Georgia State University neuroscience majors to learn about the evolution of brains, what the different parts of the brain do, and then create your own imaginary creature’s brain! Participants will receive Play-Doh by mail to participate in the activity. This event repeats March 19 and 20.

All sessions of this event are sold out. Learn more here!

#SpeakUpForScience | March 14th 12:00 PM

Presented by Science for Georgia

What do we want? Democracy! When do we want it? Now!

But how do we get there? Speaking with your legislators is a perfect example of democracy in action. They can only serve community needs if they know what you care about. If science is what you care about, log in for this online session with Science for Georgia and learn how to effectively share your opinion with your legislator.

Register here!

Women in STEM: Learning from Monumental Leaders | March 15th 6:30 PM

Presented by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) IF/THEN Initiative, funded by Lyda Hill Philanthropies

If statues could speak, what would they say? Find out at this interactive online panel discussion, featuring successful women in various STEM careers from across the U.S. who all share one thing in common – they were featured in the largest display of female statues in the world through the IfThenSheCan Exhibit. These phenomenal women will be covering topics like the plethora of opportunities in STEM, how to prepare for these types of careers, the importance of the female perspective in STEM, strategies to succeed in environments where you may be “the only one”, and many more – through an interactive virtual game. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from these prominent STEM pioneers!

Register here!

Fun Science Hacks with Dr. Jo Hecker | March 18th 7:45 AM

Presented by the German Consulate General in Atlanta; Dr. Joachim Hecker

What is the ‘magic’ behind the fabulous “Ames room“? How do pickles get tickled by high voltage? What can you see with infrared eyes? What happens to styrofoam frogs in a pressure cooker? Do plastic cups have a memory? How can you inflate a knotted balloon? Why don‘t suction cups work on the moon? So many questions – and a show full of answers!

As Science Entertainer Jo Hecker puts it: “I don’t like science. I love science!“

Register for the event here!

Hack the Earth: People Focused, Earth Centered | March 18th 5:00 PM

Presented by Emory University, Saikawa Lab

How can YOU solve the environmental health problems in Atlanta? Air quality and lead exposure are both issues causing health problems in the city. With your ideas for innovative public policy or product solutions, we can start addressing these problems. On Friday evening, attend the virtual kick-off info session to be briefed on the issues by experienced Emory students. Attend virtual office hours with Emory students throughout the weekend to talk through questions. And finally, join our virtual showcase on Sunday evening to present your solution. You could win money and one-on-one time with Emory students and professors to talk about your proposed solution! Participate in Hack the Earth: People Focused, Earth Centered to solve critical issues in the Atlanta community!

Register here!

Latino College & STEM Fair | March 19th 9:00 AM

Presented by Georgia Tech CEISMC Go-STEM, HoPe

We invite you to our 10th Annual Latino College and STEM Fair! Join us online for bilingual workshops, and inspirational conversations with Latino college students, parents, professors, and other STEM professionals. Various prizes and raffles for attendees. Hands-on STEM workshops will be available for schools and community organizations. This will be a free, fun, educational and exciting event organized by Georgia Tech’s GoSTEM program in partnership with HoPe (Hispanic Organization Promoting Education). You don’t want to miss it!

Register here!

HealthHacks 2022 | March 19th and 20th 9:00 AM

Presented by Emory University, Citizen Science HD

Want to learn about the different types of COVID-19 vaccines? What is in your COVID self-test kit that detects COVID-19? Join us at Healthhacks 2022, an annual health-themed hackathon for middle school and high school girls! Come learn to code with Scratch and create your own project to address global health problems! Workshop themes this year include nutrition and food insecurity in Atlanta and the health of immigrant children in the U.S. This is a hackathon for beginners with no prior experience to computer programming.

Register here!

Carol on Cumberland: A Natural History | March 19th 1:00 PM (multiple dates)

Presented by Wild Cumberland

Hear directly from scientist and author Carol Ruckdeschel about the historical challenges Cumberland Island and its Wilderness has faced, its current challenges, and the public’s role in protecting it.

Register here!

Neuroscience is looking for a few good brains! | March 22nd 7:00 PM

Presented by Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science

Neuroscience is looking for a few good brains! Join a virtual tour of the Center for Advanced Brain Imaging (CABI) to learn how brain scanning works and how you can volunteer. The tour shows off the equipment that researchers use to explore the health and development of the brain using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other techniques. Members of the public from all age groups can volunteer to participate in critical studies at CABI that help us understand how the brain changes over the lifespan and how to resolve concerns about reading, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, tumors, and more. Expert scientists will lead an interactive but pre-recorded virtual tour, then provide a live Q/A panel discussion afterward to field all your burning questions about brain imaging.

Register here!

DNA Is Elementary! | March 23rd 6:30 PM

Presented by Georgia State University: The Bio-Bus Program

Join the Bio-Bus and learn how to speak the language of DNA! We will provide a DIY kit and you can tune in to do some activities with us, learn the basics of DNA, and meet some cool resident scientists!

This event is sold out. Learn more here!

Science and Society Events

Science and society eventsThe intersection of science and how it influences the culture of the world at large truly brings to life the value of STEM learning. These 2022 Atlanta Science Festival events are all about what science means for society. Start planning your Atlanta Science Festival experience with these events, taking place March 12-26.

Discovery Walks: Sweet Auburn | March 12th 10:00 AM (multiple days)

Presented by Discovery Walks: Sweet Auburn

Science is all around us, often hidden in everyday places – where we live, where we play, and where we walk. On this self-guided Discovery Walk through the Sweet Auburn District, you will uncover some of this secret science on a family-friendly 2.5 mile route with ten intriguing science stops. Pick up a free Discovery Walk map and take your family on an urban science and history adventure. This event repeats on March 13.

Participants must be over 18. Learn more here!

#SpeakUpForScience | March 14th 12:00 PM

Presented by Science for Georgia

What do we want? Democracy! When do we want it? Now! 

But how do we get there? Speaking with your legislators is a perfect example of democracy in action. They can only serve community needs if they know what you care about. If science is what you care about, log in for this online session with Science for Georgia and learn how to effectively share your opinion with your legislator.

Register here!

Women in STEM: Learning from Monumental Leaders | March 15th 6:30 PM

Presented by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) IF/THEN Initiative, funded by Lyda Hill Philanthropies

If statues could speak, what would they say? Find out at this interactive online panel discussion, featuring successful women in various STEM careers from across the U.S. who all share one thing in common – they were featured in the largest display of female statues in the world through the IfThenSheCan Exhibit. These phenomenal women will be covering topics like the plethora of opportunities in STEM, how to prepare for these types of careers, the importance of the female perspective in STEM, strategies to succeed in environments where you may be “the only one”, and many more – through an interactive virtual game. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from these prominent STEM pioneers!

Register here!

Tech Talks: Unique and Diverse Perspectives in Science | March 17th 7:30 PM

Presented by Georgia Tech, Georgia Tech Student Organizations

Hear inspiring stories from Georgia Tech’s diverse research community. Students and faculty will bring their perspectives about their science journey, share what they hope to do to improve their fields, and how that will impact lives. After each talk, you’ll have the chance to ask questions and talk directly to each researcher.

Register here!

Science and Spirituality | March 24th 7:00 PM

Presented by First Christian Church of Decatur, Gentle Spirit Christian Church of Atlanta

What are the intersections and shared pathways of science and spirituality, of physics and faith, of biology and belief? Belief in a loving God may be nice if you have it, but what if you aren’t wired that way? What if your main mode of being is by thinking, wondering, and questioning? Who says the only way to encounter the holy is through faith? Can people connect via the mind, or intellectualism, or reasoning?   

Join us as we explore the concept of justice through the eyes of science and spirituality. Our panel of local scientists and theologians will explore and offer a wide range of insights and offerings in a safe space for open dialogue. 

The event is taking place inside the sanctuary. Learn more here!

Earth & Space Science Events

Earth and space science eventsLooking to broaden your knowledge of earth and space? You can choose to attend events ranging from astronomy to thunderstorms at our festival. Start planning your Atlanta Science Festival experience with these events, taking place March 12-26.

What’s Up in the Night Sky?  | March 12th 11:00 AM 

Presented by Georgia State University 

Explore the universe from home and imagine life as an alien as you investigate the night sky with and create your own alien.  Scientists from Georgia State University’s Physics and Astronomy Department will lead through a tour of the universe via an online application and provide instructions for exploring the effects of light pollution and creating an alien life form. All you need are basic materials from home and your imagination.

Free with advance registration. Register here.

Playing Mother Nature: Modeling Extreme Earth Phenomena at Your Fingertips | March 12th 2:00 PM

Presented by The School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences – Georgia Institute of Technology

Did you ever wish you could play the role of “Mother Nature” and alter the Earth system?  The School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Georgia Tech is excited to host “Playing Mother Nature: Modeling Extreme Earth Phenomena at Your Fingertips!”  We invite Earth science enthusiasts (young and old) to join us to explode a volcano, create weather and earthquakes, alter the Earth’s land and explore rocks and minerals.

Free admission. Learn more here.

11 Alive Storm Trackers: The Science Behind Tracking Thunderstorms  | March 19th 2:00 PM 

Presented by 11 Alive, TEGNA, and Emory University 

Join the 11 Alive Stormtrackers as we explore the science behind storms and stormtracking! This interactive presentation appropriate for the whole family explores thunderstorm life cycle and forecasting, how radar allows us to see a slice of a thunderstorm, and features the 11 Alive ThunderTruck storm chasing car!

Register here. 

The Astronomy of Star Wars  | March 22nd 6:00 PM 

Presented by Georgia State University Perimeter College 

One with the Force are you? Join us for this all-ages dress up sci-fi adventure where Professor Jay Dunn leads a discussion on the worlds and aliens of the Star Wars films and compares them with the planets and life in our solar system as well as extra-solar planets. Along the way, we’ll enjoy video clips inspired by Star Wars and other sci-fi favorites. Young Jedi and Padawan alike are encouraged to attend in their favorite sci-fi attire.

Free with advance registration. Register here.

The Mysterious Unidentified Organism From Space | March 25th 4:00 PM 

Presented by the Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta and the Functional Genomics Center Zurich

Astronauts stationed at the Imaginary International Space Station (IISS) found a mysterious living organism while performing a spacewalk.  Help us find out if the organism is coming from earth or if it’s extraterrestrial (ET) by using the latest analytical technologies.

In this workshop, we will start investigating the organism by eye and zoom in to the level of individual cells and even to the molecular level. As the scientist in charge, you will extract and investigate the DNA from the unidentified organism that was found in the space station.

This event is sold out. Learn more here. 

 

Science & The Arts Events

Science and the arts eventsCheck out these events ranging from jazz to crafting in order to gain interdisciplinary insight into our world. Start planning your Atlanta Science Festival experience with these Science & The Arts events, taking place March 12-26.

Learning from Nature: Biomimicry Design Challenge | March 12th 9:30 AM (multiple dates)

Presented by Museum of Design Atlanta 

Nature’s been solving problems for eons! What can we learn from the natural world and how can we apply it to help humans? Find out how you can make the world a better place by learning from the original designer herself, Mother Nature. Learn from Nature in this family-based hands-on activity! This event repeats on March 19.

Register Here.

MindCraft! The Science of Crafting | March 12th 2:00 PM 

Presented by Georgia Tech STEM Communication and Outreach, Georgia Tech Student Organizations

Ever wonder what goes into making some of your favorite crafts? Haven’t picked up your pandemic hobby? Make your own mini-crafts and learn about the science of materials in knitting, origami, flower pressing, pottery, and more. Join the GT STEM Communication and Outreach Group, and bring your family and friends to craft together!

This event is sold out. Learn More Here.

Conversations in Creativity | March 12th 3:00 PM 

Presented by Science Gallery at Emory University 

Art and science are often unfairly placed at opposite ends of the spectrum. The overlaps between the two abound with art inspiring science, science inspiring art, and above all – creativity guiding both. Join us for a conversation about creativity and how artists and scientists leverage the intersection of art and science to provoke dialogue and solutions for shared global challenges.  We will hear from Atlanta-based artist and architect Amy Landesberg, Georgia Tech mathematician/physicist Elisabetta Matsumoto, and the Science Gallery, a new arts x science venue in Atlanta.

Free admission with advance registration. Register Here. 

Guthman Music, Art, and Technology Fair  | March 12th 4:00 PM 

Presented by Georgia Tech 

Get a sneak peek at what goes into the latest in music technology by visiting our music, art and technology fair, just before the Georgia Tech Guthman Musical Instrument Competition. See musicians, artists, engineers, and makers showcase their latest work at this hands-on, interactive showcase.

Registration is not required for the free Fair, but tickets must be purchased for the Guthman Competition. More info about that event here.

Guthman Musical Instrument Competition | March 12th 7:00 PM 

Presented by Georgia Tech 

A music, engineering, and tech mashup, the Georgia Tech Guthman Musical Instrument Competition is an annual event aimed at identifying the world’s next generation of musical instruments and unveiling the best new ideas in musicality, design, engineering, and impact. The Guardian called the competition “The Pulitzer of the New Instrument World,” and The New York Times described the “special, otherworldly sound that you can feel permeating your soul” which became the hallmark of the competition. Fast Company explained how Guthman’s “Futuristic Instruments will change how we make music,” and Atlanta Magazine suggests that “at the Guthman Competition, innovative instruments just might predict the future of music.”

Come early from 4-7pm to see musicians, artists, engineers, and makers showcase their latest work at the Guthman Music, Art, and Technology Fair- a hands-on, interactive showcase.

Register here. 

Science Improv | March 16th 7:30 PM 

Presented by Georgia Tech and Whole World Improv Theater 

It’s improv comedy with a science twist! Come see experienced improv actors and professional scientists take the stage together to put on a unique entertainment and educational experience. The audience will provide scientific suggestions to drive the performance, and you’re sure to have a great time and come away having learned something too! Comedy improvisation has never been geekier.

Register Here.

The Wizard of Oz: Puppets + Science = MAGIC! | March 18th 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM (multiple dates)

Presented by the Center for Puppetry Arts 

Join the Center for Puppetry Arts and Frisch Marionettes as they introduce you to The Wizard of Oz!  Your amazing Atlanta Science Festival experience will include a puppet show, a Create-A-Puppet Workshop™, Museum exhibits with specialized learning stations, and much more!  Have a blast learning about the weather, simple machines, and the STEAM of puppetry. For a a 25% off discount for these special ASF shows, use code “ASF” when purchasing your tickets. This event repeats from March 18 – 20.

Register here.

Mathematics in Motion | March 13th 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM

Presented by Mathematics in Motion, Inc., Julia Robinson Mathematics Festival

Explore the wonder of mathematics through the performing arts!  How do dancers and circus performers understand math and communicate its beauty with their unique talents?  At Mathematics in Motion original performances by some of Atlanta’s most creative artists  will open your eyes to new ways of seeing mathematics.

Register here. 

Jazz Hands: A Science Comedy Event | March 23rd 7:30 PM 

Presented by Science for Georgia 

Scientists are funny! And because we’re scientists, we’ve got data to back that statement up!. Back by popular demand, and *in 3D*…come see scientists do comedy at Science Jazz Hands! Learn the answers to all of life’s mysteries, like “how can you make a math pun that bad?” and “how is religion like nuclear physics?”

After-hours zoo access is via the gate at the south end of the Cherokee Ave Lot. Register here.

The Story Collider | March 24th 7:30 PM

Presented by The Story Collider 

The Story Collider brings true, personal stories about science to life. At this live show, you’ll hear scientists tell heartwarming (and heartbreaking) stories about their failures, successes, and everything in between, and you’ll also hear from people who haven’t had a formal connection to science in years. Science is a part of all of our lives and The Story Collider brings chemists, comedians, actors, neuroscientists, writers, and physicists alike onto the stage to tell their (true) stories.

Register here.

Health and the Human Body Events

Health and human body events

Learn about the amazing science of health, the human body, and everything in between! These 2022 Atlanta Science Festival events are all about discovering aspects of what makes our bodies work. Start planning your Atlanta Science Festival experience with these events, taking place March 12-26.

Build-a-Brain | March 12th 11:00 AM (multiple dates)

Presented by Georgia State University, Neuroscience Institute, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience

Our amazing brains evolved here on earth along with other animals’ brains. How do brains allow humans to use tools, rats to use smell to navigate, and birds FLY? If you could build the brain of your own imaginary creature, what would it look like? Join Georgia State University neuroscience majors to learn about the evolution of brains, what the different parts of the brain do, and then create your own imaginary creature’s brain! Participants will receive Play-Doh by mail to participate in the activity. This event repeats on March 19 and 20.

All sessions of this event are sold out. Learn more here!

HealthHacks 2022 | March 19th 10:00 AM

Presented by Emory University, Citizen Science HD

Join Citizen Science HD Emory for the Health Hackathon 2022 to learn about coding and healthcare issues in the U.S. All workshops are taught by our amazing Emory Undergraduate Students. All girls from 6-10th grade are welcomed to sign up.

Register here!

Neuroscience is looking for a few good brains! | March 22nd 7:00 PM

Presented by Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science

Neuroscience is looking for a few good brains! Join a virtual tour of the Center for Advanced Brain Imaging (CABI) to learn how brain scanning works and how you can volunteer. The tour shows off the equipment that researchers use to explore the health and development of the brain using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other techniques. Members of the public from all age groups can volunteer to participate in critical studies at CABI that help us understand how the brain changes over the lifespan and how to resolve concerns about reading, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, tumors, and more. Expert scientists will lead an interactive but pre-recorded virtual tour, then provide a live Q/A panel discussion afterward to field all your burning questions about brain imaging.

Register here!

DNA Is Elementary! | March 23rd 6:30 PM

Presented by Georgia State University: The Bio-Bus Program

Join the Bio-Bus and learn how to speak the language of DNA! We will provide a DIY kit and you can tune in to do some activities with us, learn the basics of DNA, and meet some cool resident scientists!

This event is sold out. Learn more here

Environmental Science Events

Environmental science events

Learn about geocaching and how to identify the lush trees around Atlanta through our offering of Environmental Science themed events. Start planning your Atlanta Science Festival experience with these events, taking place March 12-26.

Discovery Walks: Cascade Springs Nature Preserve | March 13th 1:00 PM

Presented by Science ATL 

Science is all around us, often hidden in everyday places – where we live, where we play, and where we walk. On this docent-guided Discovery Walk through Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, you will uncover some of this secret science on a family-friendly 2.5 mile route with ten intriguing science stops. Join us for this guided walk, or pick up the free Discovery Walk map from our Docent and take off on your own for a science adventure.

Docent led tours are sold out, but you may still pick up a map and do the walk on your own. Learn more here. 

Rock ‘n Walk | March 12th 10:00 AM

Presented by GSU Geosciences 

Millions of years ago, a massive magma chamber cooled below ground near Atlanta, never erupting through to the surface. Now, we call it Stone Mountain. Join GSU Geosciences on a hike to explore this unique granite dome. You’ll also be able to ‘walk’ a Giant Traveling Map of Georgia, explore rock and mineral specimens, ‘track’ dinosaurs, and identify fossils like a paleontologist!

Tickets are free with admission. Register here.

Playing Mother Nature: Modeling Extreme Earth Phenomena at Your Fingertips  | March 12th 2:00 PM

Presented by School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences – Georgia Institute of Technology 

Did you ever wish you could play the role of “Mother Nature” and alter the Earth system?  The School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Georgia Tech is excited to host “Playing Mother Nature: Modeling Extreme Earth Phenomena at Your Fingertips!”  We invite Earth science enthusiasts (young and old) to join us to explode a volcano, create weather and earthquakes, alter the Earth’s land and explore rocks and minerals.

Free admission. Learn more here.

Geocaching Adventure | March 13th 7:00 AM (multiple dates)

Presented by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs

Hidden treasure boxes in the woods? Sign me up! Geocaching is a treasure-hunting game in which participants use GPS technology to find containers called “caches” at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world. Mason Mill Park has more than 10 geocaches and you are invited to explore the park, learn to use latitude & longitude, and find hidden caches containing science facts about the park. The park is open during daylight hours and the caches will be available for finding from March 13 – March 25.

Free admission. Learn more here.

Geocaching 101 | March 13th 1:00 PM

Presented by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs

Hidden treasure boxes in the woods? Sign me up! Geocaching is a treasure-hunting game in which participants use GPS technology to find containers called “caches” at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world. Join us for this session to learn all about how geocaching works and then set out to find more than 10 geocaches at Mason Mill Park. Along the way, you are invited to explore the park, learn to use latitude & longitude, and find hidden caches containing science facts about the park.

This event is sold out. Learn more here. 

Proctor Creek STEAM Scavenger Hunt & Hike | March 13th 1:00 PM

Presented by Groundwork Atlanta 

Come with us and explore this super cool in-town creek! We’ll be taking a 2 mile hike along the Proctor Creek Greenway and spicing our journey up with some science and scavenging! We’ll have scavenger hunt clues all along this tour of one of Atlanta’s hidden gems.

This event is sold out. Learn more here.

Botanical Mysteries | March 17th 9:00 AM (multiple dates)

Presented by Atlanta Botanical Garden 

Use your super sleuth skills to solve botanical mysteries at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. For this self-led adventure, families pick up a guide in the Visitor Center before embarking on their botanical voyage through the beautiful spring garden. The journey will include 5 stops where families become plant scientists to uncover clues. Suggested ages: 6 – 10. Free with admission. The guide for this activity will be available from March 17 – March 20.

Free with Garden admission fee. Get tickets here.

Fernbank Forest Wildflower Walk | March 17th 2:00 PM (multiple dates)

Presented by Fernbank Museum 

Join us for a small group walk to celebrate the beginning of spring in Fernbank Forest. You’ll learn about the different kinds of native wildflowers found both in the forest and around Atlanta. This event repeats on March 19.

Free with Museum admission (but requires pre-registration). Get Museum tickets and register here.

Hack the Earth: People Focused, Earth Centered | March 18th 5:00 PM

Presented by Emory University and Saikawa Lab 

How can YOU solve the environmental health problems in Atlanta? Air quality and lead exposure are both issues causing health problems in the city. With your ideas for innovative public policy or product solutions, we can start addressing these problems. On Friday evening, attend the virtual kick-off info session to be briefed on the issues by experienced Emory students. Attend virtual office hours with Emory students throughout the weekend to talk through questions. And finally, join our virtual showcase on Sunday evening to present your solution. You could win money and one-on-one time with Emory students and professors to talk about your proposed solution! Participate in Hack the Earth: People Focused, Earth Centered to solve critical issues in the Atlanta community!

Free with advance registration. Register here.

Georgia Pollinator Field Day | March 19th 9:00 AM

Presented by Georgia Public Broadcasting, UGA Extension, Georgia Conservation Districts, City of College Park, Monarchs Across Georgia

Pollinators are responsible for assisting over 80% of the world’s flowering plants. They ensure full harvests and seed production for agricultural products, and provide for healthy plants in our own backyards, community gardens and other urban areas. Join us for fun, family-friendly hands-on activities and field games as we learn about Georgia’s primary pollinators. Not just bees, but wasps, birds, butterflies, moths, slugs, snails and more! You’ll learn more about all these fascinating creatures and what you can do to support their survival!

Free with advance registration. Register here.

Discovery Walks: Piedmont Park & Beltline | March 19th 10:00 AM (multiple dates)

Presented by Science ATL 

Science is all around us, often hidden in everyday places – where we live, where we play, and where we walk. On this self-guided Discovery Walk down the Beltline and into Piedmont Park, you will uncover some of this secret science on a family-friendly 4 mile route with ten intriguing science stops. Pick up a free Discovery Walk map and take your family on a COVID-friendly science adventure through this city trail.

Free admission. Learn more here.

Family Workshop: All About Monarchs | March 19th 10:00 AM 

Presented by Trees Atlanta and University of Georgia Odum School of Ecology 

Monarch populations are declining and they need us to help.  We will discover the incredible life cycle of the monarch butterfly including the annual journey they make to Mexico. Learn what plants are helpful to have in your neighborhood as well as become part of the community science initiative to track their populations.  

This event is sold out. Learn more here.

ID The Trees! | March 19th 10:00 AM 

Presented by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs

If Atlanta is really “The City in the Forest” shouldn’t we know what kind of trees surround us? Join DeKalb County’s Ranger Jonah for a walk all about trees. Learn techniques for identifying trees by their bark, leaves, flowers, and fruit. From the common water oak to the rare winged elm, come fall in love with trees at Mason Mill Park! 

This event is sold out. Learn more here.

Taking Out the Trash | March 19th 10:00 AM 

Presented by Groundwork Atlanta, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance, and Chattahoochee Riverkeeper 

Explore the efforts underway in the Proctor Creek watershed to reduce the volume of trash entering the creek and help partners develop solutions to this problem. This interactive workshop will include a brief tour of a trash trap on the creek, an overview of the trash tracking data process, and hands-on activities for you to explore and share your solutions to reduce trash across the community and keep it out of the creek.

Free with advanced registration. Register here.

Splash into Stream Science | March 19th 12:00 PM 

Presented by GSU Geosciences, Fulton County Public Works, Project WET, Adopt-a-Stream 

Examine the world of water by catching and studying bugs that reveal the health of a local stream in southwestern Atlanta. Test water quality and learn how changing environmental conditions can affect the livelihood of habitats and how that relates to human activities. Join in games and engage in laboratory and field science at different stations next to the creek, or jump in and “get your feet wet” to participate in data collection in the water!

Advance registration requested, but not required! Register here.

Carol on Cumberland: A Natural History | March 19th 1:00 PM (multiple dates)

Presented by Wild Cumberland 

Hear directly from scientist and author Carol Ruckdeschel about the historical challenges Cumberland Island and its Wilderness has faced, its current challenges, and the public’s role in protecting it. 

Free with advance registration. Register here.

Gardening for Pollinators and Community Science in Georgia | March 19th 1:00 PM 

Presented by Georgia Public Broadcasting, UGA Extension, Georgia Conservation Districts, City of College Park, Monarchs Across Georgia

Pollinators ensure full harvests and seed production for agricultural products, and provide for healthy plants in our own backyards, community gardens and other urban areas. Join us for an afternoon of presentations and demonstrations to learn about why we need pollinators for the food we like to eat, how to plant for pollinators in small spaces using the UGA Botanical Gardens Pollinator Plants of the Year, gardening for monarchs and monarch migration, and the Great Georgia Pollinator Census.

Free with advance registration. Register here

WAWA’s O-STEAM FEST | March 23rd 9:00 AM

Presented by WAWA 

Come explore Science amongst familiar, yet new terrains. Join the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance and some of our partners for our outdoor and trail-tastic fair – passport style. Hike, explore, make forts, explore old and new habitats, enjoy nature, and visit table science activities to get your passport stamped. Take a hike at our 26-acre urban nature preserve and Bush Mountain, learn about forest biodiversity, plant/animal/insect identification, soil, art and crafts, and music of the outdoors.

Free with advance registration. Register here. 

Impacts of Global Warming on Monarch Butterfly Populations | March 24th 7:00 PM

Presented by Trees Atlanta and University of Georgia Odum School of Ecology 

The climate is changing rapidly and that is impacting wildlife just as much as it’s impacting people.  Come learn about the research being done by Isabella Ragonese, PhD candidate at Odum School of Ecology at UGA, that is tracking the role of climate change on declining monarch butterfly populations as it relates to parasite infection rates.  Find out how you can get engaged in community science as a way of aiding in monarch butterfly conservation.

Free admission. Learn more here.

Animal Events

Animal EventsLooking to broaden your knowledge of animals? You can learn more about reptiles, amphibians, birds, and more at these upcoming events. Start planning your Atlanta Science Festival experience with these events, taking place March 12-26.

Salamander Stroll | March 12th 10:00 AM 

Presented by The Amphibian Foundation 

Come on out to Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve in Decatur and witness wildlife with regional experts from the Amphibian Foundation. Become ‘citizen scientists’ and perform an amphibian ‘bioblitz’ inventory of the preserve documenting salamanders and frogs in one of the greatest strongholds for amphibians inside of the perimeter! Everyone and their families are encouraged to attend and bring their cell phones to upload images of what we find to iNaturalist.

Free admission. Learn more here. 

Twilight Tots | March 12th 5:00 PM 

Presented by Zoo Atlanta 

Bring your little ones for an evening of science exploration at the Zoo! Designed for families with children ages 0-5, you’ll get to enjoy a mini-tour of the Zoo, culminating in a science experiment and dance party! This exciting program will introduce young conservationists to wildlife, inspiring them to learn more about animals and the natural world.

Get tickets here.

Not Just Newts: Behind the Scenes with the Amphibian Foundation | March 13th 2:00 PM and 3:15 PM 

Presented by The Amphibian Foundation 

Atlanta is home to a unique nonprofit dedicated to the conservation and research of amphibians amidst a global population decline. In 2016, the Amphibian Foundation formed to focus on conserving two of Georgia’s most imperiled species (Gopher Frog and Flatwoods Salamander). Since then has begun working on other native and globally endangered amphibians. Closed to the public, this is a chance to see the conservation collections and meet Foundation staff working hard to save these vital and sensitive animals from extinction.

Both sessions are sold out. Learn more here.

Urban Slug Walk  |  March 13th 3:00 PM 

Presented by GSU Geosciences 

Feeling sluggish? So are we! Come on out on a slug filled adventure where we’ll use our eagle eyes to search for these slimy and fascinating creatures, and learn all about them as we hike through Sykes Park! Download the iNaturalist app beforehand and we’ll use that to identify what we find and contribute data to the Atlanta SLIME project!

Advance registration requested, but not required. Register here. 

Exploring Atlanta’s Birds | March 19th 9:00 AM 

Presented by Georgia Audobon 

Join Georgia Audubon to explore the diversity of birds that call Atlanta home! Led by an ornithologist (a biologist who studies birds), we will explore the new Westside Park–Atlanta’s newest and largest park that is home to over 100 species of birds! Come learn about the birds who live in Atlanta year-round, those passing through on their spring migratory journeys, and how you can learn to identify and protect birds in your everyday life.

Westside Park has paved, wide trails, and we will travel on paths with, at most, gradual inclines. When entering, use the entrance with the large, white tunnel.

This event is sold out. Learn more here.

Biology of the Despised: Venomous Snakes! | March 20th 2:00 PM 

Presented by The Amphibian Foundation and the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance 

The Amphibian Foundation seeks to elevate awareness of the global amphibian declines. Here in Atlanta, AF also works to address some of the urban pressures impacting reptiles as well. There is perhaps no group more misunderstood and despised than venomous snakes, and AF has been working with the community since the beginning to help people discern facts from fiction, and even teaches a training course on how to handle venomous reptiles safely. Come explore these awe inspiring animals, and let’s see how much of that fear is actually fascination.

This event is sold out. Learn more here.