There are some people who hear the word “science” and their ears perk up and their minds whiz around with possibilities. And there are others who hear the word and immediately run to the exit for fear they’ll be bombarded with Latin names and complex formulas.
We know science can be both intimidating and fascinating. That’s why in April, the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites offers an array of exciting programs that present science topics in fun and intriguing ways everyone can appreciate.
Eco-Science Fair
What is it? A science fair any K-12 student can participate in, and anyone can walk around and check out.
Why it’s cool: There’s reading about science, but then there’s actually doing an experiment yourself. Science fairs are fun opportunities to BE a scientist, then look around the fair and see what everyone else chose to explore. As someone walking around the fair, you’ll be impressed with the variety of topics addressed and how much you’ll learn.
The details: April 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Indiana State Museum. Visiting the fair is included with the price of museum general admission.
Tell me more: Click here
Books, Booze and Brains
What is it? A monthly adult book club, hosted at a brewery.
Why it’s cool: You’ll meet other similar-minded people and chat about a real issue affecting our world. This month, a scientist and a facilitator will discuss In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction by Gabor Maté, a book about the science behind addiction. They will explain the takeaways in everyday language. PS – If you didn’t read the book, that’s ok! Come anyways.
The details: April 17, 6:30 p.m. at Centerpoint Brewing Company (1125 E Brookside Ave Suite 2B, Indianapolis, IN 46202) ages 21+ and free.
Tell me more: Click here
Food Evolution Film Screening
What is it? A screening of and discussion about the film Food Evolution, along with related activities.
Why it’s cool: If you’ve heard of GMOs (genetically modified organisms), chances are you’re aware there is a debate around them. But you might not know why. See the film Food Evolution, and join a paneled discussion and activities about the topics presented in the film. This is a great opportunity to get clued into a hot issue in a fun and interesting way.
The details: April 18 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Indiana State Museum; The event is free, but registration is required at the link below.
Tell me more: Click here
Creatures of the Night
What is it? A nighttime nature hike filled with hands-on activities.
Why it’s cool: You’ll get to dip-net for tiny creatures in the marsh and inspect them under digital microscopes. Plus, bring your flashlight to search for hidden animals with glowing eyes and use our bionic ears and night vision goggles to explore nocturnal animals. Finally, finish off the evening with a campfire and toasted marshmallows.
The details: April 20, 8:30 p.m. at the Loblolly Marsh Nature Preserve, part of Limberlost State Historic Site (8001-8499 N 250 W, Bryant, IN 47326) $4 for adults and $3 for children.
Tell me more: Click here
taste of science
What is it? Three days of evening science talks at local breweries—you choose from nine event options.
Why it’s cool: It’s a festival happening in cities across the U.S meant to get scientists and non-scientists together and talking. It’s an opportunity for you to go straight to the source on subjects you’d often only read or hear about in the news. A chance to hear someone describe what goes on behind closed doors, and a chance to question them about it. In Indy, there will be an event at three different breweries each night from April 23-25.
The details: April 23-25, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Tell me more: Click here
33rd Annual Wildflower Foray
What is it? This nature-filled weekend is hosted by numerous nature and conservation organizations to bring a wide scope of hikes and programs to Brown and Monroe counties.
Why it’s cool: Guides will lead wildflower and bird hikes as well as boat trips. Some hikes will be located on the T.C. Steele State Historic Site grounds. All hikes and programs are free, and a dinner is offered Saturday evening for $12.
The details: April 27-29 at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site.
Tell me more: Click here
Guided Tour of Rainbow Bottom
What is it? A guided nature hike through Rainbow Bend Park.
Why it’s cool: Not only will you enjoy a beautiful wildlife-filled hike through huge sycamore trees, you’ll be guided by a naturalist who will share fascinating details about what you see, smell and hear. Take this opportunity to ask as many questions as you’d like about nature and wildlife!
The details: April 28, 9 a.m. through noon. Meet at the Limberlost State Historic Site Visitor Center.
Tell me more: Click here
Finally, don’t miss special programming at the Indiana State Museum:
- Nano Days (April 2-6, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. daily)
- National Robotics Week (April 9 – 12) More details coming soon!
- Citizen Science Day (April 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) Day for Science, presented by Indiana Sciences and the Indiana State Museum
- National Environmental Education Week (April 23 – 29, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Mon – Sat, 12 p.m. & 2 p.m.
- National DNA Day (April 25, 12 p.m. & 2 p.m.)
