First Atlanta Science Festival set for 2014

Atlanta residents of all ages will celebrate the science and technology of the region and its impact on our daily lives during the inaugural Atlanta Science Festival, March 22-29, 2014. With scientists, engineers and educators from local museums, corporations, K-12 schools and universities, the festival will host more than 40 different events for children and adults at venues across the city. Learn more at http://atlantasciencefestival.org.

The annual Atlanta Science Festival is a collaboration of scientific, educational, corporate, civic, cultural and community organizations led by founding partners Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, The Atlanta Science Tavern and the Metro Atlanta Chamber.

"Whether you're a self-proclaimed science-lover or simply fascinated by the how the world works, we invite you to share in this celebration of 'the curious' in all of us," says Jordan Rose, the festival's managing director and associate director at the Emory College Center for Science Education. "There's something for everyone: comedy, art, poetry, food, lasers, stars, gardens, dinosaurs and more."

Participants will explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through hands-on activities, facility tours, stimulating presentations and riveting performances. The festival week culminates with an Exploration Expo at Centennial Olympic Park on March 29, 2014, where more than 20,000 attendees are expected to enjoy interactive activities, workshops and performances.

"The Atlanta Science Festival is the perfect addition to Atlanta's ever-growing STEM community," says David Hartnett, festival chairperson and vice president of Bioscience-Health IT, Economic Development, Metro Atlanta Chamber. "The weeklong festival will link science with other fields of inquiry by connecting the arts, education and bioscience industry through showcasing Atlanta's rich and vibrant scientific and cultural landscape. This inaugural science festival will demonstrate why Atlanta is a world leader in education and thought leadership."

The Atlanta Science Festival is important to the state's economic development. "By raising awareness of our local science assets, educational and employment opportunities, and by highlighting Georgia as a national and global leader in innovation, the festival aims to recruit new leaders to our workforce," says Rose. "The festival will expand our community of science enthusiasts and inspire a new generation of curious thinkers."

Provided by Georgia Institute of Technology