Lodi High School will host the Ninth Annual NorCal Science and Technology Festival on Saturday, February 24th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The event will take place at Lodi High School, located at 3 Pacific Ave, Lodi, CA, 95242. Organized by Lodi High teacher Bruce Jonsson, the festival stands as a beacon for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) enthusiasts, attracting attendees from all over California.
This year's event promises to be even more expansive than previous editions, boasting between 85 to 90 booths and exhibits. Among the highlights is an interactive experiment showcase by Fizzics Education, an Australian-based educational group. This inclusion is part of a district-wide tour, offering festival-goers the unique opportunity to engage in hands-on scientific activities. Participants will have the chance to create their own barometer, spectrometer, or motor, diving deep into the practical aspects of science.
Moreover, the festival is excited to introduce a virtual reality astronaut program presented by Magnitude.io, allowing attendees to experience the thrill of space exploration without leaving the ground. The initiative to include Fizzics Education and Magnitude.io is sponsored by Magnitude.io, emphasizing the festival's commitment to delivering innovative and interactive STEAM learning experiences.
Local educators from the Lodi Unified School District will also take part, showcasing projects from their classrooms. Notable among these is a hydroponic garden project, illustrating the cutting-edge technique of soilless plant cultivation. Additionally, this year's festival will feature an increased number of agricultural exhibits, highlighting topics such as grape harvesting technologies and conservation efforts, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage.
The NorCal Science Festival, initially founded in 2016 by former Tokay High School student Julie Fukunaga, aims to foster a widespread appreciation and understanding of STEAM fields. Initially held at Tokay High, the festival found a new home at Lodi High last year, with potential plans to rotate locations in future editions.
Open to the public and entirely free of charge, the festival will run from 10 am to 3 pm at Lodi High's north gate off Elm Street. Attendees can also enjoy a variety of culinary delights from local food vendors, including The Oxcart Deli, Cost's Finest Kettle Corn, and Taco-solicit food trucks.
Bruce Jonsson extends a warm invitation to individuals of all ages to explore the fascinating world of STEAM at the NorCal Science and Technology Festival. It's an excellent opportunity for community members to engage with innovative technologies, learn about scientific advancements, and inspire the next generation of STEAM professionals.
