Colorado Springs families can look forward to a day of discovery as the University of Colorado‑Colorado Springs (UCCS) hosts the 17th annual Cool Science Festival on Saturday. The event, billed as “Carnival Day,” runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features over 100 hands‑on activities designed to spark curiosity in children and adults alike.
Free Admission and Parking
Both parking and admission are free, making the festival an accessible option for anyone looking for an educational outing without the cost. UCCS student presenter Josh Pappas explained, “There’s a lot to learn very, very quickly, and you start to get lost in all the information. Going and showing people cool science brings back the wonder.”
What to Expect
Professional “cool scientists” will lead demonstrations and host science‑magic shows throughout the day. The Space Foundation Discovery Center will bring its signature robots, rockets, telescopes, slime stations, and live‑animal exhibits to the campus grounds. Attendees can try experiments ranging from the simple (hot‑plate chemistry) to the whimsical (hot‑dog rockets), ensuring there is something to intrigue every age group.
Beyond the Carnival
After the Saturday carnival, the Cool Science organization will continue its outreach across the Pikes Peak Region and Pueblo with dozens of additional events. Most of these follow‑up activities remain free, while a few will charge a modest fee to cover overhead costs. A full calendar of events is available online, and participants can pre‑register by clicking on the specific event that interests them.
Community Impact
The festival aligns with Colorado Springs’ growing emphasis on STEM education and family‑centered community programming. By offering free, high‑quality science experiences, the event supports parents who want to nurture curiosity and critical thinking in their children without the expense of private tutoring or costly museum trips.
How to Get Involved
Volunteers, local businesses, and educators are encouraged to partner with the festival. Opportunities range from helping staff activity stations to providing sponsorships that keep the event free for the public. Interested parties can contact the Cool Science organizers through the event website.
Whether you are a seasoned science enthusiast or a parent looking for a fun, educational outing, the Cool Science Festival offers a day of wonder, learning, and community connection right here in Colorado Springs.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
