San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering Thrills Visitors at Petco Park

The San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering brought excitement to Petco Park on March 7, 2026, as thousands of visitors engaged with a variety of hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. This annual event, designed to inspire interest in STEAM education—science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics—featured numerous booths showcasing scientific demonstrations and experiments.

Attendees experienced a captivating robot demonstration at the US Navy booth, highlighting advancements in robotics and technology. Young visitors found joy in engaging with the displayed technology, with Myra Plange, an eight-year-old participant, delighting audiences as she created smoke rings from a specially designed tub. Such interactive experiences not only entertained but also educated the youth about fundamental scientific principles.

The festival featured a wide array of returning booths, including the popular Mad Science exhibit, where siblings Jaquim and Azel Medrano collaborated to build cube structures. This hands-on approach allowed children to explore their creativity while learning about engineering concepts. Similarly, Steve Fred demonstrated the extraction of DNA from a strawberry, providing a tangible example of biological science that captivated onlookers.

In addition to these engaging activities, local organizations, including SDSU Science, offered a platform for children to delve into various scientific experiments. Participants like Adam Riego enjoyed the opportunity to capture memories at the booth, further emphasizing the festival’s community-focused atmosphere.

The festival, which has become an anticipated annual event in San Diego, serves as a vital platform for promoting STEAM education among young learners. Organizers aim to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators, fostering a sense of curiosity and discovery that extends beyond the event itself.

As the day unfolded, it was clear that the San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering succeeded in its mission to engage and educate, leaving attendees with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of science. This celebration of knowledge and exploration continues to enrich the local community, reinforcing the importance of education in shaping future leaders.