Saturday, April 18th 11 AM – 2 PM
A Hands-On Family Celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math 🔬⚙️🎨
Join us for a day of curiosity, creativity, and discovery at the Junior Center of Art and Science / East Bay Creative Lab! This hands-on community event invites children ages 5–13 and their families to explore the exciting intersections of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) through playful experimentation and creative problem-solving.
Throughout the day, families can roam between interactive stations led by local scientists, naturalists, artists, and makers, each offering a chance to tinker, test, build, and create.
Whether your child loves messy experiments, inventive building challenges, or artistic exploration, there will be something to spark every imagination.
Hands-On STEAM Stations
Young innovators can explore a variety of engaging activities, including:
- Slime Chemistry Lab – Mix, measure, and experiment with the science of polymers.
- Light-Up Circuits – Learn the basics of electricity by creating glowing creations.
- Strawberry DNA Extraction – Discover the building blocks of life by isolating real DNA.
- Robotics Challenges – Test problem-solving skills with hands-on robotics activities.
- Cyanotype Sun Prints – Use sunlight and natural materials to create beautiful blueprints.
- Water Filtration Engineering – Design and build your own water purification system.
- More surprise stations led by local STEAM experts!
Each station invites kids to experiment, ask questions, and learn by doing.
STEAM Passport Adventure
When you arrive, each child will receive a STEAM Passport.
Visit stations, collect stamps, and complete your passport to earn a small prize at the end of your adventure!
Who Should Attend
This event is perfect for:
- Curious kids ages 5–13
- Families looking for hands-on learning experiences
- Young creators, scientists, engineers, and artists
- Anyone who loves making, experimenting, and discovering
No prior experience required—just bring your curiosity!
Event Details
Location: Junior Center of Art and Science / East Bay Creative Lab
558 Bellevue Ave. Oakland, CA
Ages: 5–13 (families welcome)
Cost: Free
Format: Drop-in, explore at your own pace
Come Invent the Future With Us
At Junior Center, we believe that curiosity, creativity, and experimentation help young people imagine new possibilities for our world. Join us for a joyful day of learning, making, and community.
Bring the whole family and get ready to explore STEAM together!
Are you a Scientist? Volunteer at the STEAM FAIR!
We are looking for professional scientists, engineers, naturalist and tech experts to help spark that same curiosity and support children engage in fun science activities to celebrate Earth Day at the Junior Center of Art and Science STEAM Fair!
ASK: We are looking to recruit volunteers who are professionals and experts in the STEM field to help us facilitate a STEAM station. We would offer an orientation on how to lead your respective STEAM station.
Our goal is to pair your expertise with hands-on discovery to show students (ages 6 – 13) that science isn’t just in a textbook—it’s in the real world. Deadline to sign up is Monday, March 23
- DATE: Saturday, April 18
- TIME: 11 AM – 2 PM
- WHERE: Junior Center of Art and Science, 558 Bellevue Ave at Lake Merritt (Oakland, CA)
- GOAL: Lead a “Discovery Station” featuring a simple experiment or demonstration related to your field.
ACCESSIBILITY & INCLUSION
We’re committed to making all programs at the Junior Center of Art and Science accessible and inclusive. Our spaces are wheelchair-friendly, and we welcome learners of all abilities and learning styles. If you or your child need accommodations, please let us know—we’re happy to help! Read our Accessibility Statement here.
You can indicate any accommodation needs or concerns when registering your child under the “Special Instructions about my child” section. You can also reach out directly at contact@juniorcenter.org