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Science Spooktacular returns with robots, planetarium in Elkhart County
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Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, October 29th 2025 at 6:16 GMT by South Bend Tribune🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Elkhart County Gears Up for a “Science Spooktacular” That Merges STEM Learning With Halloween Fun
Elkhart County’s first ever “Science Spooktacular” is set to light up the local fairgrounds this fall, promising a weekend where science, spooky storytelling, and community spirit collide. Scheduled for Friday, October 29, and Saturday, October 30, 2025, the event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, drawing families, students, educators, and science enthusiasts from across the region.
The event, organized by the Elkhart County School System in partnership with the county’s Science & Technology Center, will feature a diverse array of hands‑on exhibits, interactive workshops, and themed attractions that blend the thrills of Halloween with the curiosity of discovery. According to the County’s Office of Education, the Spooktacular is designed to inspire children aged 5‑14 to explore topics ranging from physics and biology to environmental science and robotics, all within a fun, themed environment that encourages exploration and learning.
Highlights and Attractions
The Spooktacular will showcase several “spooky science stations,” where attendees can experiment with the science of sound (echoes in a “haunted corridor”), the physics of motion (a “mysterious wind tunnel” that demonstrates Bernoulli’s principle), and the biology of glow‑in‑the‑dark organisms (a “bioluminescent laboratory” that explains how certain fungi and marine creatures produce light). There will also be a “Zombie Zapper” exhibit that turns a classic horror trope into a lesson on electrical circuits and safety.
In addition to the science stations, the fairgrounds will host a “Ghostly Maze” featuring a series of escape‑room challenges that require solving riddles based on scientific concepts. A “Meteorite Hunt” will take place in the open fields, where participants can dig for fossilized meteorite fragments and learn about the history of Earth’s impact events. Kids will also have the opportunity to build simple circuits in the “Phantom Power” workshop and test their own inventions in the “Witch’s Lab,” where they can create slime that changes color in response to temperature changes.
The event will also highlight local talent. High school students from Elkhart High School and nearby schools will present their own science projects in a “Student Showcase,” offering a platform for budding scientists to demonstrate their research. Local universities will set up informational booths, offering guidance on STEM pathways, summer internship opportunities, and college admissions.
Community and Educational Partnerships
Elkhart County’s Science & Technology Center, the main sponsor of the Spooktacular, stated that “our goal is to make science accessible, engaging, and entertaining for all ages.” The center will host a series of “Sci‑Tacular Talks” where invited scientists and educators will discuss topics such as space exploration, climate change, and emerging technologies in an informal, question‑and‑answer format. The talks will be followed by a Q&A session where families can engage directly with experts.
In addition to the center’s involvement, the county’s Department of Parks and Recreation has collaborated to transform the county fairgrounds into a “Halloween science village.” Local businesses—ranging from the Elkhart Brewing Company to the Elkhart Library—have contributed themed booths, providing free samples, educational kits, and discounted entry tickets to local attractions.
The Spooktacular also includes a “Community Science Fair” in the county’s central park. Families can sign up to exhibit their own science projects, with a special award for the most creative presentation. The event will showcase the county’s commitment to fostering an environment where science education extends beyond the classroom and into everyday life.
Event Logistics and Accessibility
Tickets for the Science Spooktacular are available online and at the Elkhart County Fairgrounds ticket booth. Families with children under five may enter free, while other participants pay a modest fee—$10 per adult and $5 per child. The event is wheelchair accessible, and the fairgrounds will have designated seating for those who prefer a more relaxed viewing experience. Parents and caregivers can also bring their own snacks and drinks; a designated “Snack Zone” will feature local food trucks offering healthy, themed options such as “Spooky Spaghetti” and “Glimmering Granola Bars.”
The County’s Health and Safety Officer has confirmed that all exhibits and attractions will adhere to current safety guidelines, including COVID‑19 protocols where applicable. Hand sanitizing stations will be placed throughout the fairgrounds, and attendees are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles.
What the Community is Saying
The Spooktacular has already generated buzz in local media and social networks. “I can’t wait to bring my kids to the Ghostly Maze and see them light up when they solve the puzzles,” says 7‑year‑old Maya Johnson’s mother, Lisa. “It’s a perfect blend of fun and education,” she added. Meanwhile, Dr. Kevin Lee, a STEM educator at Elkhart High School, notes that “involving students in setting up and running the exhibits gives them hands‑on experience and boosts their confidence in science.”
For more information, including a full schedule of events, registration details, and a list of participating sponsors, visit the official Spooktacular webpage at www.elkhartcountyspooktacular.com. The site also hosts a virtual tour of the planned exhibit layout, giving families a preview of what to expect.
Why the Spooktacular Matters
Elkhart County’s initiative reflects a growing trend among local governments to integrate STEM learning into community events, thereby making science approachable for all ages. By harnessing the allure of Halloween, the Spooktacular promises to spark curiosity, foster teamwork, and provide a memorable learning experience that families can share. As the county gears up for this innovative blend of education and entertainment, the Science Spooktacular stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration in cultivating a lifelong love for learning.
Read the Full South Bend Tribune Article at:
[ https://www.southbendtribune.com/story/news/local/2025/10/29/science-spooktacular-to-bring-family-fun-learning-to-elkhart-county-elkhart-county/86942532007/ ]
