The Big Build: Free Hands-On STEM at National Building Museum (Sat 10/14)

One of the best ways to get kids interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is through hands-on experiences. This Saturday, October 14 DC area families are invited to The Big Build at the National Building Museum. This free annual festival will include plenty of interactive learning experiences for all ages as the world we design and build is celebrated.

About The Big Build at the National Building Museum

From 10-4 pm, the National Building Museum’s Great Hall will be filled with dozens of booths featuring activities for The Big Build. Everyone will have the opportunity to use real tools and they explore a wide variety of unique, hands-on activities from professions including plumbing, home remodeling, construction, woodworking, and more. Kids of all ages and adults will learn side-by-side with roofers, plumbers, designers, artisans, and craftspeople as they learn how to wire a light, pour concrete, and hammer nails.

While there will be plenty going on inside during The Big Build, don’t miss the Truck Petting Zoo outside The National Building Museum. You’ll want to head outside to climb inside construction equipment like a crane.

While at The Big Build, be on the lookout for:

• The Tech Room— Designed to engage older children and teens, The Tech Room will have augmented reality demonstrations, virtual reality experiences, and other immersive digital activities
• Storytimes— Held throughout the day, younger visitors can come listen to stories that will inspire them to explore the world and find their place within it
• Opportunities for Scouts to Earn Badges– Brownie and Junior Girl Scouts can earn their STEM Career Exploration badges by discovering the many trade career possibilities and speaking with professionals in STEM positions

The Big Build at the National Building Museum is free and you can drop in any time on Saturday, October 14 between 10-4 pm. No registration is required and all ages are welcome. 

For information on other exhibitions at the National Building Museum like Brick City and Play Work Build, visit the current exhibitions page. Please note that these exhibitions are not part of The Big Build and require tickets.

No compensation was received for this post.