Chandler is a destination that is ideal for any family getaway. The city boasts a wide range of family-friendly attractions that range from the old west themed Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse to six aquatic facilities to keep cool during the summer. The community of roughly 250,000 people has something for everyone including restaurants, outdoor activities, museums, festivals, and more.
The Chandler Science Spectacular highlights the scientific innovations of the people and businesses of Chandler, Arizona. The event is part of the Arizona SciTech Festival, which features over 1,000 science themed workshops, expos, talks, and demonstrations. This year’s sixth annual spectacular will take place February 17-18, with activities perfect for all ages including model rocket launches, mock crime scenes, video game stations, computer presentations, and more. Food will be available thanks to onsite food trucks, and the event location is within walking distance of several Chandler restaurants. We got the opportunity to speak to Rick Heumann, Former Council Member for the City of Chandler, to talk about this unique event.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
RH: This is the sixth annual Chandler Science Spectacular.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
RH: The festival grows each year. Last year, we had more than 3,000 attendees.
RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event?
RH: This is a family-friendly event, so all ages are welcome.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
RH: Attendees have the opportunity to participate in a variety of experiments where the fundamental principles of science are featured. This is where our future scientists can be curious and see if a specific field is something they want to explore further.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
RH: Orbital ATK offers a passport for kids to explore their multiple booths, which of course, feature rocket launches every hour. The event also features interactive mock crime scenes, fingerprinting activities, Game Truck spaceship, Xbox One stations, coding, mechanical and underwater robot demonstrations, and much more.
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
RH: Stormtroopers and public safety officials from our Police and Fire departments are always a fan favorite. Also, DJ Dan Bare will be spinning fun tunes.
RAL: What dining options will patrons encounter?
RH: There are a few food trucks at the event and attendees can purchase snacks or lunch. The event is held in downtown Chandler and within walking distance of several restaurants for additional dining options.
RAL: What is the overall environment like?
RH: The event is right in the heart of downtown Chandler, next to our Downtown Library, near plenty of great restaurants and places to shop.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
RH: The San Marcos Resort is right across the street from the event. It's Chandler’s first resort, and since 1912, it has served as a winter getaway for celebrities and dignitaries.
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
RH: Chandler has built a reputation as being the innovation and technology hub of the Southwest. Our biggest tech companies invest in the event, and it grows every year. It’s an opportunity for the companies to connect with the youth, show them a fun side to science, and introduce them to future careers.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
RH: Any event held in the downtown area is supported and appreciated by the surrounding businesses, as it attracts customers to their shops/eateries.
RAL: Does the event support a special cause in the community?
RH: The event is free of charge to the public and the companies. We have two companies that sponsor the event, but the money is used to pay for facility fees, printing of programs, etc.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
RH: The Science Spectacular is a fun, family event that’s free to the public. There are so many different booths to explore, and everyone who attends has a positive experience! View a video recap of last year’s event.
For more information about the Chandler Sci-Tech Festival, please visit the event website.