Published: February 22, 2026
Families looking to spark curiosity and explore science together can mark their calendars for the Third Annual Visit Lauderdale Science Festival, returning to the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) on Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free, indoor/outdoor festival invites parents and kids to explore, experiment and discover side by side during a full day of hands-on STEM experiences in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Designed to make science fun, accessible and unforgettable, the festival brings families, educators and curious minds together to explore interactive exhibits, live shows and emerging technologies that reveal how science shapes everyday life. Rather than watching from the sidelines, children are encouraged to touch, test and try, while parents learn alongside them, creating shared moments of curiosity and conversation.
This year’s festival features experiences that connect science to real world skills and challenges. Families can explore sustainability and innovation with Amazon, including a collaborative community mural showcasing innovative eco-friendly transportation, or dive into outdoor science and conservation through a hands-on fishing clinic with the International Game Fish Association. Budding botanists can examine flowers up close in a flower dissection microscope lab presented by Florida Prepaid College Savings Plans, while Math Happens turns problem solving into playful challenges using pattern blocks and geometric tiles.
Live performances bring additional energy throughout the day. Popular science educator “Science Bob” Pflugfelder delivers fast paced experiments designed to spark laughter and curiosity, while Chemistry Colleen reveals the hidden colors inside everyday materials using paper chromatography. Students from School of Rock blend rhythm and sound science on stage, and the WeFlip Science Acrobats turn physics into a high energy, gravity defying experience.
Throughout the festival, museum galleries and outdoor spaces remain open, allowing families to move seamlessly between MODS exhibits and outdoor programming. Flexible pacing, shaded seating areas and food trucks make it easy to take breaks, refuel and jump back into the fun without missing a moment.
Families can also gather inside the AutoNation IMAX Theater for a free screening of Lost Wolves of Yellowstone, a visually stunning documentary that explores wildlife conservation, ecosystem balance and the science behind restoring nature. With activities for toddlers through teens, this festival happens rain or shine, is completely free, and tickets can be reserved at mods.org/sciencefest. The Museum of Discovery and Science is located at 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale.