Cambridge residents and visitors are in for a treat this fall as the Cambridge Science Carnival makes a grand return on September 21. Announced in a recent statement—the MIT Museum and the City of Cambridge jointly said that the family-friendly event will unfold from 12 p.m to 4 p.m. at the Kendall/MIT Open Space. An annual favorite, the carnival promises over 125 interactive booths, live music, and dynamic demonstrations, creating a hub of scientific excitement that everyone can enjoy.
According to the details shared on the City of Cambridge's official website, the event aims to be bigger and better than ever this year. The Carnival has, in the past, drawn crowds of over 17,000 in just a four-hour span, and with the MIT Museum receiving more than 130 applications for booths, the organizers expect to break new records. Attendees can look forward to activating their hands-on experience with a plethora of family-friendly STEAM activities. For example, the Robot Petting Zoo allows visitors to directly interact with an array of robots, from underwater bots to miniature racing models. Another fixture is the City of Cambridge Recycling Department booth, which educates on the finer points of recycling and composting, thus turning 'trash into treasure.'
Keelin Caldwell, the Director of Engagement at the MIT Museum, told the City of Cambridge, "The Cambridge Science Carnival is a tradition built on discovery, joy, and connections." Caldwell further emphasized the day as one of free fun and exploration, welcoming the entire community, especially the neighbors of the vibrant city, to partake in the event. Highlights also include a live recording of the Tumble Science Podcast and interactive demos from the MIT Physics Department.
Michael John Gorman, Director of the MIT Museum, noted the city's rich scientific pedigree, stating, "Cambridge is one of the world’s leading science cities, with more Nobel laureates per capita than any other city on the planet." This Carnival is indeed a day to celebrate science right in the community's backyard, with Cambridge residents encouraged to sign up for free memberships at the museum—with offers also extended to active military, EBT cardholders, members of the Massachusetts Teachers Association, and MIT ID holders, as reported by City of Cambridge website.
Accessibility and ease of attendance have clearly been carefully considered. Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang pointed out the significance of the event, saying, "The Cambridge Science Carnival is a bright spot every year," and encouraging those with even a hint of interest in the STEAM fields to get involved. To accommodate attendees, MIT will provide complimentary shuttle service within Cambridge, and for those preferring public transport, options abound with the T and several bus lines servicing the area near the Carnival, according to the City of Cambridge. Furthermore, a $15 day rate at the Hayward Garage makes parking hassle-free for families converging on the Kendall/MIT Open Space.
