Enjoy a night filled with all things space! Join for hands-on activities led by museum educators and our community partners. Morrill Hall will be open late just for this event.

Some activities include, but not limited to:

• The Science in Science Fiction and the Science Fiction in Science with Dr. Arden Eli Hill, 6:30pm, 7:30pm, 8:30pm
• Create your own rocket
• Computers of Science Fiction
• Wild and Strange Exoplanets
• Physics and Telescopes with the Omaha Astronomical Society
• Explore the world of quantum science and nanotechnology
• Learn more about Tanabata, the Summer Triangle constellation including Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair)
• Rules In Space: Space Law for the Final Frontier
• Create your super-powered biology bracelet
• Special Planetarium Shows

eCreamery staff will conduct an informative presentation on the “Science of Ice Cream and Dry Ice.” Students will be given a small tour of the facility, a lesson on how ice cream is made, a brief history of ice cream, and the differences in density and composition between gelato, sorbet and ice cream. During the dry ice presentation, they will present the chemistry of dry ice and explain density and dissipation.

This event is for kids 12 and under.

Step inside a thriving urban farm and explore the fascinating world of microgreens, sustainable agriculture, and innovative growing techniques at this exciting Nebraska Science Festival event at Barn Girls Farms!

During this open house, participants will learn how tiny seeds transform into nutrient-packed microgreens, learn about urban farming, and see firsthand how fresh food can be grown right in the heart of the city.

This interactive experience is perfect for curious minds of all ages. Come grow your knowledge, taste the freshness, and see how science is helping communities cultivate a healthier future — one tiny green at a time!

Lunch will be available to purchase.

Get ready to go birding by participating in the Birds of a Feather program at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s newly renovated James Family Conservatory and Nature Center.

This is a program is intended for elementary-aged youth and chaperones. We introduce a different birding topic each session to begin the program. When weather permits, we will head outdoors for a hike or time in the birding area. The program runs approximately 60-90 minutes.

April 7 – Feathers, Forms and Functions: Consider how the form of a bird (beak, feathers, feet) relates to the functions they do to survive and thrive in the wild.

April 21 – Raptors: Discover the differences between hawks, eagles, owls and more as soar in and study their senses, diet and adaptations.

Get ready to go birding by participating in the Birds of a Feather program at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s newly renovated James Family Conservatory and Nature Center.

This is a program is intended for elementary-aged youth and chaperones. We introduce a different birding topic each session to begin the program. When weather permits, we will head outdoors for a hike or time in the birding area. The program runs approximately 60-90 minutes.

April 7 – Feathers, Forms and Functions: Consider how the form of a bird (beak, feathers, feet) relates to the functions they do to survive and thrive in the wild.

April 21 – Raptors: Discover the differences between hawks, eagles, owls and more as soar in and study their senses, diet and adaptations.

Visit The Hall of History Museum at Boys Town, and explore their science stations.

Make your own comic books, design your own superhero outfit, learn about pottery, make a molding of a butterfly or dinosaur – to take home, and take a peek into microscopes and guess how much your brain weighs. Plus, don’t forget to stop by their “Brain Games” wall.

Free admission. The Hall of History is open Monday through Saturday from 10am until 4:30pm and on Sundays from 11am until 4pm.

Download the scavenger hunt and go out and search for science. Ten quests await you – no matter where you live in Nebraska. You have all month long, April 1-30, to complete these tasks. Tag us on social media or email us and share your completed hunt!

NESciFest-Scavenger-Hunt-2026

Have you ever wondered what happens once you throw something into the trash can? How important is recycling? Join OPL as they explore these issues in a fun (and tasty) way! Participants will use pudding, candy, cookies, cereal, and other tasty treats to create an edible landfill.

This is a free event for children ages 7-12. Registration is required.

In collaboration with NE SciFest, we are pleased to offer “Nebraska SciFest SUN-Day at Branched Oak Observatory.” While you visit Branched Oak Observatory you also get to do what you were always told what NOT to do… look at the Sun! With our special White Light and Hydrogen Alpha Telescopes, you will have a chance to see Sunspots, Solar Prominences, Granulation, Filaments, and so much more on the surface of our closest star… the Sun.

Note: Solar viewing is dependent on the weather.

• Admission is $5 per person.
• No Registration
• Arrive Anytime Between the Times Given
• Stay for the Entire Event or As Long As You Want
• No Park Permit Required