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Activities

  • Investigate lasers up close with our hands-on Laser Lunacy displays.
  • Dare to explore the Spooky Science of our hugely popular Haunted Physics and Creepy Chemistry Labs which will be a part of STEMfest this year.
  • Take a short break with a good book in the STEM Book Fair where you can preview science and engineering titles for readers of all ages.
  • Get creative in the Tech Play Ground as you make your own music, animations, videos, and more.
  • Observe sunspots and see how a telescope works.
  • Talk with innovators in science, technology, engineering, and math from across northern Illinois.
  • Attend mini presentations provided throughout the day by NIU faculty and regional STEM celebrities. Click here for the schedule.
  • Check out the ultra-high-mileage vehicle (1265 mpg!) and other award winning vehicles designed by NIU students.
  • Grab a snack or lunch at the concession stand, complete with seating for families. Speakers will meet with interested persons here after their presentations.
  • Try your hand at one of the many competitions.
  • Investigate innovative STEM research in the exhibit area.
  • Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Youth Groups 
    • Earn a STEMfest patch by completing your choice of activities in "Passport to My Future," an Illinois Girls Collaborative Project Mini-Grant supported activity. Be sure to stop at the Passport to My Future table near the entrance as you arrive.
    • Already earned a patch in 2010? Bring or wear it and earn a VISA* patch for this year's activities. (*Very Informed STEMfest Alumna)
  • Observe robotic devices from the Winnovations Robotics Team, the students of IMSA, Girl Scouts, and more regional teams.
  • See a selection of snakes, reptiles, and other creepy crawlies from the Midwest Museum of Natural History.
  • Get blown away and see how wind can be used as a source of energy.
  • Find out what an Art Cafe doing at STEMfest. NIU's Art Cafe is part of Second Life in virtual reality. Come see what that means.
  • Experience creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving with instant challenges from Destination ImagiNation, Inc.

Check back here for updates as we add activities and exhibitors!