MADISON — The Wisconsin Science Festival is set to return for its 16th year, offering over 650 events across the state from October 15 to 25. This year’s theme, “Us,” will be explored through various scientific and artistic activities.
Originally a three-day event in Madison, the festival has grown into a 10-day showcase that spans more than 55 counties in Wisconsin. It functions as a leading model for engagement and collaboration as a member of the Science Festival Alliance.
“The Wisconsin Science Festival is a celebration of curiosity in action, inviting people of all ages and from every corner of our state to explore, ask questions and discover something new,” said Samantha Mulrooney, director of the Wisconsin Science Festival at the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery. She emphasized the festival’s role in highlighting the innovative minds that contribute to the state’s uniqueness.
The festival will open with Science on the Square on October 15, in collaboration with the Madison Night Market. This event will feature hands-on science activities, food trucks, local artisans, and views of the Capitol.
Throughout the festival, a variety of events are scheduled, including Science & Soccer Night with Forward Madison FC at Breese Stevens Field, a discussion on DNA testing in genealogical research with genealogist Caron Brennan in Door County, and a magic show by illusionist Steve Belliveau in Westby. Additionally, former scientist and stand-up comedian Sarah Adelman will present her show “BLOW MY MIND” at the Rigby Pub.
Libraries participating in the festival will distribute over 3,000 take-home science kits as part of the “Science in a Bag” project, which is now in its sixth year.
The festival also emphasizes the interplay between art and science, with events like a gallery stroll at the John D. Wiley Gallery for Art in Science, an evening at the Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass, and craft activities at the Hustisford Community Library.
Additionally, the Wisconsin Book Festival, which is celebrating its 25th year, will collaborate with the science festival for cross-over events. Jane Rotonda, director of the book festival, noted that both festivals together underscore the importance of storytelling and knowledge sharing, particularly through contributions from Wisconsin writers and researchers.
