Alexandria Declares Spooky Mad Science Expo Day
Mayor and City Council to Recognize 11th Annual STEM Celebration on October 17
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Get ready for a celebration where science gets spooky, curiosity takes center stage, and learning becomes an adventure.
The City of Alexandria will officially recognize the Chrysalis Development Group (CDG) 11th Annual Spooky Mad Science Expo on Saturday, October 17, with the Mayor and City Council joining the celebration at 4 p.m. for a City Proclamation declaring October 17 “Spooky Mad Science Expo Day” in Alexandria.
The event will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. at Patrick Henry Recreation Center. The rain date is October 24.
A Growing Celebration of STEM
Last year’s Expo drew more than 3,500 attendees and featured more than 100 interactive experiences presented by universities, research organizations, companies, educators and community partners.
This year, Chrysalis Development Group is building on that success with new experiences and expanded opportunities for young people and families to explore science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics through hands-on activities.
And that raises a fun question: What happens when you combine Halloween, science and a room full of curious young minds?
At Spooky Mad Science Expo, the answer is an afternoon designed to make STEM exciting, accessible and unforgettable.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists
Chrysalis Development Group is a Northern Virginia-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing educational equity through hands-on STEAM events and programming.
CDG specializes in immersive learning experiences that spark curiosity and help young people—particularly those from underserved communities—see themselves as future scientists, engineers, health professionals and STEM leaders.
Its programs include the Spooky Mad Science Expo, Teen Science Café and Be a Health Scientist, along with year-round initiatives such as Chrysalis Academy.
Together, these programs create opportunities for young people to connect directly with members of the STEM community and discover careers and possibilities they may not otherwise encounter.
Interactive Experiences Take Center Stage
The 2026 Expo will invite universities, research organizations, companies, educators and community partners to share interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities, STEM and STEAM experiences, career connections and other creative ideas that can engage and inspire young explorers and their families.
The goal is simple: turn curiosity into connection—and connection into opportunity.
Organizations interested in participating in Spooky 2026 are encouraged to explore participant registration and sponsorship opportunities.
Event Details
What: 11th Annual Spooky Mad Science Expo
When: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 3–7 p.m.
City Proclamation: 4 p.m.
Where: Patrick Henry Recreation Center, Alexandria, Virginia
Rain Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
For participant registration or sponsorship information, contact Chrysalis Development Group.
