Mountain Science Expo 2024
Join us for a free STEM-oriented science festival where you can interact with scientists, explore nature, and grow your curiosity!
The Mountain Science Expo is a part of the larger NC Science Festival, a state-wide and month-long event dedicated to celebrating the impact of science educationally, culturally, and economically on our state. The NC Science Festival and the Mountain Science Expo hope to inspire children to pursue—and adults to support—the sciences, such that North Carolina can lead the country and the world as a place of innovation and learning. This year’s theme, in fact, is “State of Innovation,” highlighting how science is being driven forward within North Carolina.
Exhibitors
Through the Mountain Science Expo, we aim to support STEM education by providing an opportunity for all ages to interact with scientists and science educators in a hands-on and wonder-filled environment. Participating exhibitors include:
- ecoEXPLORE
- Project Explore
- The National Center for Environmental Information (NCEI)
- The North Carolina Department of Air Quality (NCDAQ)
- The WNC Nature Center
- UNCA STEAM Labs
- The Highlands Biological Foundation
- The Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS)
- The Cradle of Forestry
- And more!
Native Azalea Day
Participants in the 2024 Mountain Science Expo will also have the opportunity to visit the North Carolina Arboretum’s Azalea Collections for a special Native Azalea Day event. This event will feature additional exhibitors, including local horticultural organizations, artists, and ecoEXPLORE educators. The Azalea Collections are remote and normally only accessible by trail. Access to them for the event will be eased via ADA accessible vans.
Golden Tickets
Kids can get special Golden Tickets! Simply check out a science book from your local library, and you’ll receive a Golden Ticket good for free parking the day of the event.
There is no additional cost to attend Mountain Science Expo beyond our standard parking fee. As always, Arboretum Society members and their accompanying guests can enter for FREE (guests must be in member vehicles to receive free entry).