2026 North Carolina Science Festival in April

The North Carolina Science Festival (NCSciFest), a month-long, statewide celebration of science, returns in April 2026 with the theme "Science Matters." Produced by Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, with presenting sponsor RTI International, NCSciFest features hundreds of interactive events designed to engage audiences of all ages in science, technology, engineering and math.

WHEN:
April 1-30, 2026

WHERE:
Events will take place in all 100 North Carolina counties at schools, libraries, museums, parks, universities and community spaces.

FEATURED EVENTS:

• UNC Science Expo
  April 11, 2026, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Piedmont)
  The Festival's signature event features more than 100 hands-on exhibits, stage shows and demonstrations led by scientists, students and community partners.

• Science Everywhere at UNCG
  April 11, 2026, Greensboro, North Carolina (Triad)
  The Science Everywhere@UNCG Festival will be a campuswide open house celebration of science, technology and the arts.

• UNC-Charlotte Robot Rumble 2026
  April 18, 2026, Charlotte, North Carolina (Charlotte metro)
  Come see dozens of combat robots fighting in a double-elimination tournament on the campus of UNC Charlotte.

• Statewide Star Party
  April 24-25, 2026, locations statewide
  Join communities across North Carolina for a weekend of stargazing events, telescope viewings and astronomy programs under the night sky.

• Mountain Science Expo
  April 25, 2026, Asheville, North Carolina (Mountains)
  An event at the North Carolina Arboretum featuring live animal presentations, exhibitors from across the region, special interactive activities and more.

WHO:

• Morehead Planetarium and Science Center
• RTI International (presenting sponsor)

• Schools, universities, museums, libraries and community organizations statewide

• Scientists, educators, students, science enthusiasts and families

WHY:

The North Carolina Science Festival highlights the importance of science in everyday life and its role in shaping a stronger, healthier and more innovative future for all North Carolinians.

Morehead Director Todd Boyette said, "The theme of Science Matters reflects how science touches every part of our daily lives in North Carolina, from our communities and economy to our health and environment. Science absolutely matters, and this is why we are excited to bring this event to the state once again in 2026."

"Science is at the heart of everything we do at RTI," said RTI President and CEO Tim J. Gabel. "It's how we turn ideas into solutions that improve lives. By partnering with the NC Science Festival, we're helping ignite curiosity and inspire the next generation to lead with innovation and purpose."

VISUALS & INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:

• Hands-on science demonstrations and interactive exhibits

• Families and students engaging in STEM activities

• Telescope viewing and nighttime sky observations

• Interviews with scientists, educators and Festival organizers

MORE INFORMATION:

A full calendar of events is available at ncsciencefestival.org.