Where Science Gets Spooky: Alexandria’s Mad Science Expo Marks 10 Years

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Science, costumes, and a little bit of Halloween magic will collide at the 10th Annual Spooky Mad Science Expo on Saturday, October 18, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Patrick Henry Recreation Center, 4653 Taney Ave. A rain date is set for October 25.

Now one of the region’s largest STEAM outreach festivals, the Expo has grown into a can’t-miss fall tradition. Families, educators, artists, and innovators will gather for an afternoon filled with 100+ hands-on stations, robotics showcases, live demonstrations, youth-led programming, and the crowd-favorite Sky Dome planetarium.

The celebration kicks off with the STEAM Costume Parade at 2 p.m., followed by a contest at 6 p.m. Costumes are encouraged for all ages—especially scientists. Guests can also look forward to music, food trucks, and plenty of surprises.

“This isn’t just a science fair, it’s a movement,” says Zohreh Khoshnamak, Founder and CEO of Chrysalis Development Group. “Kids discover that science can be a little spooky, a lot of fun, and absolutely for everyone.”

Presented in partnership with the City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities, and supported by sponsors including DASH, Virginia Tech, AT&T, HRP, Anthem HealthKeepers Plus, and Simpson, the Expo remains free and open to all.

For details, visit chrysalisdg.org/spooky-mad-science-expo or contact [email protected] / 571-421-6181.