Mad River Valley STEM Festival Brings Hands-On
Science Fun to Local Families
Interactive ECHO Science Exhibits Come to Big Picture Community Hub for the Arts This October

Mad River Valley, VT – The Mad River Valley community is invited to explore the exciting world
of science, technology, engineering, and math at the inaugural Mad River Valley STEM Festival
on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Big Picture Community Hub for the Arts.
Hosted in partnership with the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, this free community
event will transform the Red Theater and outdoor spaces (weather permitting) into an interactive
science playground featuring hands-on activities designed to inspire families and spark curiosity
about the natural world.
STEM Festivals create joyful shared experiences that strengthen our community while building
excitement about science and learning, said event organizer Frankie Burg. We are thrilled to
bring ECHOs renowned interactive exhibits directly to Mad River Valley families.
Festival Highlights Include:
Guided Activities with ECHO Educators:
● Air Rockets – Design paper rockets and explore the forces of flight with air-pressure
powered launchers (outdoor launch zone)
● LEGO Gravity Racers – Build custom weighted race cars and test them on a 32-foot
track while learning about forces and center of gravity
Self-Guided Exploration Stations:
● Rigamajig – Collaborative large-scale building with wooden planks, gears, and loose
parts
● Big Blue Blocks – Imagination Playgrounds oversized building system encouraging
group play
● Wind Wall – Send balls and materials through a maze of clear tubes
● Vertical Flyer – Experiment with objects flying in custom wind tubes
● Bike Generator – Pedal to create electrical energy that powers inflatable characters
● Circuit Blocks – Design and test electrical circuits with lights, buzzers, and motors
● Spin Chairs – Experience physics through safe, fun movement
● Quiet Corner – Sensory-friendly space with books, coloring, and calming activities

The festival welcomes all ages, with activities specifically designed for preschoolers through
adults. Families can complete a Passport book upon entry, collecting stamps at each activity
station.
The Mad River Valley STEM Festival is made possible by founding members of the Big Picture
Community Hub for the Arts.