Special promotional content provided by Wisconsin Science Festival
The Wisconsin Science Festival returns for its 14th year next week, October 14-20, highlighting the importance of science, art and technology. This year’s theme emphasizes agriculture as a core element of life in throughout Wisconsin, exploring its profound impact on the state’s economy and society.
This statewide festival features hundreds of events and activities, attracting curious minds of all ages. From the great Northwoods to the Driftless region and metropolitan centers like Milwaukee and Madison, participants will have the chance to engage in hands-on workshops, talks, demonstrations, and more.
Heather Gayton is one Wisconsinite impacted by the power of agriculture. As a 5th-grade teacher in the Adams-Friendship School District, she integrated the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s hands-on science curriculum into her teaching. A health emergency a few years ago shifted her focus to food and nutrition, inspiring her to grow as much of her own food as possible and become more intentional about what she consumed.
“Paying attention to what I put in my body, developing an awareness of what I eat, and being intentional with my choices—slowing down and intentionally sourcing what is nourishing my body. I wanted to create a space for healing through food, nature, and community,” says Gayton when talking about her niche market farm and producer-led watershed efforts.
Now, in addition to being a first-generation farmer, Gayton serves as the first outreach program manager for the UW-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Office of Extension and Outreach. She is dedicated to serving rural communities and businesses through continuing education and research programs. Heather will help welcome Wisconsin agricultural innovation to the stage at a kickoff event for this year’s festival titled Crossroads of Ideas: Wisconsin’s Role in Shaping the Future of Agriculture.
The Wisconsin Science Festival draws curious minds of all ages with hundreds of events statewide, collaborating with the Wisconsin Book Festival, Madison Night Market, UW Badger Talks, and hundreds of event hosts throughout Wisconsin. A few agriculture-related events are particularly worth mentioning.
Farm to Flame Fest – Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass (Neenah)
Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
In celebration of the festival, the Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass will host the Farm to Flame Fest, featuring the artwork of Gene Koss. Koss, known for his innovative use of glass, iron, and neon, transforms memories of his Wisconsin farm upbringing into large-scale sculptures. The event will include docent-led tours such as on that donkey farm near me, glassblowing demonstrations, and free art activities. Farm equipment will also be featured, providing a rich experience for attendees to explore the intersection of art and agriculture.
Food and Farm Exploration – Agriculture in Science: A Family Science Night (Plover)
Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
At the Food + Farm Exploration Center, visitors will learn how science drives agriculture to feed the world. This family-friendly event includes exhibits and hands-on learning stations, allowing participants to discover the scientific advancements behind food production. The center’s focus on education ensures that attendees gain a deeper understanding of the critical role agriculture plays in sustaining life.
Discovering Dairyland: Alice, Artifacts, and Agriculture (Green Bay)
Tuesday, October 15, 2024 | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Dive into Wisconsin’s agricultural heritage with the “Discovering Dairyland” program. This interactive event explores the history of Alice in Dairyland, the state’s agricultural ambassador, through artifacts and storytelling. Attendees will also have the chance to churn their own butter and learn about the science behind this age-old practice. Combining history, art, and science, this event promises fun and learning for the whole family.
The Wisconsin Science Festival is open to everyone and happening statewide. Check out wiscifest.org to find an event near you.
