Discovery Park is participating in the 2024 Tennessee STEAM Festival, which aims to build interest and excitement in STEAM and cultivate the next generation of citizen and professional science advocates and practitioners. The festival leverages local partnerships from across the region to connect curiosity to careers, with the goal of filling gaps in the existing workforce and inspiring the future workforce to pursue careers in STEAM fields in Tennessee’s fast-growing and diversifying economic climate.

The Tennessee STEAM Festival runs from Oct. 11 through Oct. 27. Discovery Park will be participating Oct. 15 through Oct. 19 at Discovery Park of America. Activities on each day will take place in Dino Hall from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Oct. 15 – Tectonic Tuesday

• Building Volcanoes: Learn about volcanic eruptions by creating your own volcano
• Slinky Earthquake Activity: Discover how S and P waves move through the Earth using a Slinky
• Earthquake Challenge: Test your building skills by constructing a structure out of toothpicks and marshmallows to see how it holds up against simulated earthquakes

Oct. 16 – Wind-Powered Wednesday

• Guests will learn about windmills, wind vanes and wind-powered cars
• Guests will be able to build their own wind-powered cars

Oct. 17 – Technology Thursday

• Snap Circuits: Learn about electrical circuits by building various projects
• Laser Maze: Navigate a maze using laser beams to understand light reflection and refraction
• Smart Circuit Labs: Engage in hands-on activities to discover how smart circuits work.

Oct. 18 – Fossil Friday

• Discovery Fossil Pit: Dig for fossils and uncover ancient treasures
• Dinosaur Sensory Bin: Explore textures and shapes in a dinosaur-themed sensory bin
• Make Your Own Fossil: Create salt dough impressions to have your very own fossil specimen
• Fossilized Egg Pop-Up Program: Participate in a special program to learn about and discover fossilized eggs

Oct. 19 – Science Saturday

• Spend the day in Dino Hall exploring different Earth sciences, such as geology, meteorology, biology and more through a variety of science experiments and activities presented by UTM. Learn about hydroponics, and visit a station dedicated to minerals.