Public Programs
Join us at the 2026 MSU Science Festival
Save the dates: April 1-30, 2026
Every fall, the Science Festival team hosts an open call for presentations across the STEAM disciplines. We're always looking for new and innovative programs. If you have an idea for a new program or event, we'd love to hear from you!
Presentation Types
STEAM Expo Zone Booth: Hands-on Science
The STEAM Expo returns in early April 2026 at the STEM Teaching and Learning Facility! Invite audiences of all ages to get hands-on with activities across the STEAM disciplines. Presenters will be provided with space, tables, chairs, electricity access, Wi-Fi, and water access if needed.
Early Childhood Zone Booth: Hands-on Science
Host special activities and demonstrations for families with young children under 8 years old that support early childhood development. Presenters will be provided with space, tables, chairs, electricity access, Wi-Fi, and water access if needed. The Early Childhood Zone will take place at the STEM Teaching and Learning Facility as a part of the STEAM Expo Weekend. The date is TBD, but should be announced in the early fall of 2025.
Talks, Demonstrations, and Performances
Talks, panel discussions, musical performances, story slams, poetry slams, chemistry demonstrations, and more! The sky is the limit. Below is a list of featured topics we are especially excited about this year:
- Edible Science: Join us for a tasty series celebrating global cuisine, human nutrition, agriculture, and the science behind the food we eat.
- Michigan Science: This series will highlight Michigan’s unique ecosystems, species preservation efforts, and the importance of protecting our rich biodiversity
- The Future & Beyond: What might the future look like? New technologies are being developed every day that will shape our lives and our futures. This series will shine a light on what is yet to come.
Presentations may be scheduled during Expo Weekend, Science After Dark events, or other festival events throughout April. Festival staff will reach out to you in January 2026 to discuss scheduling options.
Behind the Scenes Tours and Open Houses
Invite visitors on a special behind-the-scenes guided tour of your lab, museum, garden, archives, or facility. Host an open house for your space where visitors can drop by and explore at their own leisure.
On-campus tours will take place during Expo Weekend (4/5 & 4/6) or during other public or youth programs throughout the spring. Festival staff will reach out to you in January 2025 to discuss scheduling options.
Nights at the Museums
Invite visitors to experience science LIVE in your museum!
Statewide Astronomy Night
Explore the wonders of the universe with local audiences at your planetarium or observatory during SWAN. The 2026 date is TBD
Science After Dark
Programs designed for adult audiences: science pub nights, brewery and distillery tours, musical performances, late-night events, and more! Program venues and dates are TBD, but a festival staff member will reach out in January 2026 with scheduling options.
Next steps & what to expect
After submitting a proposal, our team will then review your submission and reach out in early 2025 regarding the status of your proposal. Upon acceptance, we will share venue and scheduling options, and next steps for preparation.
Questions?
Feel free to reach out to us at any time at scifest@msu.edu