The Atlanta Science Festival 2026 is underway, bringing a vibrant, citywide celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) to metro Atlanta.
Now in its 13th year, this annual event—engineered by the nonprofit Science ATL—continues to inspire curiosity and showcase the region’s world-class STEM ecosystem through nearly 150 interactive events spread across more than 80 venues.
The event, presented by Delta Air Lines, is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
When Is The Atlanta Science Festival?
The Atlanta Science Festival takes place from March 7 to March 21, 2026, this year and promises to be a science-filled adventure.
Here’s what’s in store if you decide to attend the festival.
- GEORGIA TECH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING DAY
- ANIMALS IN MOTION: BIOMECHANICS DAY AT ZOO ATLANTA
- ATLANTA FERMENTATION FESTIVAL
- ADVENTURE LAB AT MASON MILL
- ADVENTURE LAB AT MASON MILL
The festival officially launched on Saturday, March 7, 2026, with the “Celebrate STEAM” open house at Georgia Tech. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., attendees explored hands-on activities, demonstrations, and exhibits across campus.
Highlights included robotics, brain science, biology, space exploration, nanotechnology, bioengineering, chemical engineering, computer science, and more.
Visitors connected with student researchers and witnessed cutting-edge advancements in a free, family-friendly environment.This kickoff set the tone for two weeks of discovery, with events ranging from workshops and talks to outdoor trails and performances.
A Diverse Lineup of Events
Throughout the festival period, participants can enjoy a packed schedule of experiences. Examples from the 2026 lineup include:
- Science Escape Room Trails at Mason Mill Park (multiple dates, such as March 10, 11, and 14), offering puzzle-solving adventures infused with scientific concepts.
- University-led demonstrations, lab tours, and public lectures at institutions like Emory University and Georgia Tech.
- Community partner events at museums, parks, libraries, and businesses across metro Atlanta.
Many events are free, while others may require registration or a small fee. The full interactive schedule is available on the official website at atlantasciencefestival.org/events-2026/, where filters help users find activities by date, audience (adults, families, kids), location, or topic.
The Grand Finale: Exploration Expo
The festival culminates in the Exploration Expo on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Piedmont Park (near 10th Street and Charles Allen Drive).
This free, flagship event is Atlanta’s largest interactive science gathering, typically attracting over 20,000 visitors.
Attendees can expect around 100 hands-on booths hosted by local universities, organizations, companies, and research groups.
Past and anticipated highlights include touching a real human brain, peering inside a jet engine, robotics displays, chemistry experiments, environmental science demos, and live performances. It’s especially geared toward families with children ages 8–13, but engaging for all ages and interests.
Parking is limited due to crowds—public transit, walking, or rideshares are recommended. In case of severe weather, updates appear on the festival’s website and social media.
Sponsors and Community Impact
Presented by Delta Air Lines, the 2026 festival receives major support from founders Emory University and Georgia Tech, plus key sponsors including UPS, Google, Cox, NCR Atleos Foundation, and others.
Over 80 community partners collaborate to produce the events, emphasizing Atlanta’s role as a hub for innovation and STEM education.
The festival fosters connections between the public and local scientists, promotes STEM career awareness, and celebrates how these fields improve daily life and shape the future.
Those are just some of the things you’ll learn at the Atlanta Science Festival. Check out the full schedule.
Final Word
The Festival is brought to you by Science ATL and community partners, with generous support from presenting sponsor Delta Air Lines, founding partners Emory University, Georgia Tech, and the Metro Atlanta Chamber, as well as other sponsors like NCR Foundation, UPS, Lenz Marketing, Cox Enterprises, Kennesaw State University, Lockheed Martin, Mercer University, and many more.
Atlanta has a thriving cultural, food, sports and music scene, with venues like the Tabernacle and the Fox Theatre hosting concerts and shows throughout the year. The city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers.
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
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