1/15/26

By FHSU University Communications

HAYS, Kan. - Organizations, educators, researchers, and businesses across Kansas are invited to share their passion for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) as presenters or sponsors for the Kansas Science Festival, returning to Downtown Hays on May 2–3.

The two-day festival, featuring astronomy viewing and special activities on Saturday, May 2, and a full day of hands-on STEM stations on Sunday, May 3, will bring together K–12 students, families, educators, and community members from across the state for an interactive celebration of discovery. Festival organizers are now seeking presenters to lead hands-on activities, demonstrations, and displays that showcase how STEM connects to everyday life in Kansas.

As part of a statewide initiative, the Kansas Science Festival highlights how STEM is accessible, engaging, and relevant for all ages. Past and planned activities include robotics, chemistry, ecology, astronomy, wildlife biology, health sciences, agricultural technology, and more. On Sunday, activity stations will line Main Street in Downtown Hays, from the Hays Public Library to STEM Harvest, transforming the district into a walkable science experience.

In 2025, the Hays festival welcomed approximately 1,200 participants from across Kansas, with strong community enthusiasm.

“The kids and even my husband and I had so much fun today!!!” one participant said. Another added, “I continue to get comments wherever I go about the amazing day in Downtown Hays. Can't wait for more just like it.”

Presenters and sponsors play a vital role in making the festival possible, while also gaining visibility among thousands of families, educators, and students. Participation offers organizations the opportunity to:

• Showcase innovative work, tools, and careers
• Inspire young people to explore STEM pathways
• Connect directly with the community and future workforce

Festival highlights for attendees

• Interactive stations with hands-on experiments, live animals, robots, tools, and technologies – geared toward K-12 students and families
• Meet-and-greets with STEM professionals
• Free hot dog meal (while supplies last)
• Food trucks, live music, balloon artists, face painting, and more

The festival is free and open to the public. Updates on the event and Saturday activities are available at sciencefestks.org/hays and through partner social media channels.

Event partners include: RAISE Kansas; STEM Harvest; Hays Public Library; Fort Hays State University Science and Mathematics Education Institute; TreeTop Security; K-State Research & Extension (Cottonwood District)

Organizations interested in participating as a presenter or supporting the event as a sponsor can find details and sign up at
https://sciencefestks.org/hays