Elementary Explorers
2025-10-23 14:00 - 14:30, 2025-10-30 14:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Thurmont Library, 76 East Moser Rd, Thurmont, MD, 21788, United States
Participate in a variety of experiences related to science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. This program is designed for children in grades K – 5 and their caregivers.

Art Exploration Teen Edition: Botanical Art of Alexander Viazmensky
2025-10-23 14:00 - 15:30 | Potomac Branch, 3225 Ruth B. Swann Drive, Indin Head, MD, 20640, United States
Join us for an afternoon of art history and learning advanced techniques. We offer two Art Exploration Teen Edition sessions on the fourth Wednesday and fourth Thursday of each month so that even more artists can join in the fun.
In October, we will take a tour through the artistic kingdom of Alexander Viazmensky. Viazmensky is a Russian artist who worked in watercolors to paint eye-catching portraits of plant life. His primary subjects were mushrooms found around Northern Russia, such as chanterelle, porcini, and birch mushrooms. We’ll learn about Viazmensky’s life and then do a cool art project inspired by his art!
PLEASE NOTE: This program is designed for ages 9 to 18. Younger participants may have difficulty with the projects and/or concepts.
Please register each child who will be attending separately and only register for one session each month, as both Wednesday and Thursday will be the same sessions.
If you have questions, please contact the Potomac Branch at 301-375-7375 or email potomacref@ccplonline.org.

Pumpkin Painting & Carving
2025-10-23 16:00 - 18:00 | Because Science, 1759 columbia rd nw, washington, DC, 20009, United States
Drop in anytime during open hours with your pumpkin (or other canvas) and use our carving tools, paint, paper, markers, glue, and other supplies to craft your spooky masterpiece.
Why This Activity is Perfect for Everyone:
Hands-On Fun: Enjoy a creative and engaging crafting experience.
Family-Friendly: Adults and kids are welcome to join in the excitement!
Details:
Includes Crafting/Carving Materials: Everything but the pumpkin provided.
Who Can Join: Open to everyone—adults and kids alike! Kids under 5 will need parental assistance and are welcome to use crafting supplies. Kids over 10 are welcome to use carving tools with parental assistance.
Registration: No prior registration is necessary, but signing up makes it easy to add the event to your calendar.
Payment: You can pay at the register or in the CL with exact cash or Venmo.
Drop in anytime during activity hours! Come join the fun!

Take N Make: Pantograph Art Machine
2025-10-24 09:00 - 17:00 | Hagerstown Branch, 100 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown, MD, 21740, United States
Register to pick up your Take N Make kit at the library branch of your choice between October 20 and 24. For ages 6 to 12. Registration required. This month’s Take N Make project: Make a Pantograph!

DIY Hallowed Halloween Hand Melt Activity
2025-10-24 16:00 - 18:00 | Because Science, 1759 columbia rd nw, washington, DC, 20009, United States
Celebrate Halloween with us by excavating frozen hands with themed toys trapped inside!
Why This Activity is Perfect for Everyone:
Creative Exploration: Discover the best way to free spooky toys from icy hands. Will warm water work? What about salt? Try different methods!
Guided Support: Our team will be there to assist and provide safety guidelines for a fun experience.
Hands-On Experiment: Perfect for kids who love hands-on activities and experimenting with new techniques and some spooky surprises to take home
Details:
Includes All Materials: We provide everything you need, including padded gloves and safety glasses.
Who Can Join: Open to all ages! Best suited for kids 5-8. Younger kids can participate using water only with adult assistance.
Registration: Advance registration is STRONGLY encouraged: We handcraft the frozen hands and need to know how many to make in advance. A few walks-ins can be accommodated and day-of payment can be made at the register.
Stop by during activity hours and join in the spooky fun!

St. Mary's STEAM Festival
2025-10-25 10:00 - 14:00 | St Mary’s County Fairgrounds, 42455 Fairgrounds Rd, Leonardtown, MD, 20650, United States
St. Mary’s County Public Schools will host their 10th annual STEAM Festival on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds. Festivities will run from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and will feature fun, food, and phenomena!
Each year, the state designates a month-long celebration of all things science, technology, engineering, and math. This STEM-related exploration takes place through in person festivals and online events. Our annual STEAM Festival is set up in a fair-style manner, where attendees can engage with exhibitors at their own pace.

OysterFest at CBMM
2025-10-25 10:00 - 16:00 | Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, 213 North Talbot St., St. Michaels, MD, 21663, United States
CBMM will host OysterFest on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10am-4pm, inviting the community to celebrate the Bay’s favorite bivalve with a day of fun for the whole family.
The OysterFest menu, of course, features fresh oysters served a variety of ways, plus other local fare, craft beer, and spirits. There’s also live music on two stages, an oyster stew competition, boat rides, a full schedule of demonstrations and presentations, children’s activities, and more.
Tickets for this rain-or-shine event, including a new VIP offering and CBMM Fall Festival Passes, are on sale now here, with discounted pricing for CBMM members.
Whether you prefer to sip, savor, or slurp Chesapeake Bay oysters, you’ll appreciate this beloved fall festival with oyster offerings from the Talbot Watermen Association and several local oyster farms, including raw and cooked options.
Guests can also purchase a variety of Chesapeake delicacies and other food offerings via local vendors on campus, plus a beverage selection that includes specialty cocktails and an array of local craft beer options. All food and drinks are an additional charge.
The always-popular oyster stew competition gives guests the chance to sample offerings from area restaurants in an OysterFest mug and then vote for their favorites to help decide which chefs claim the coveted title and local bragging rights.
The friendly competition continues with our annual oyster slurp-off contest. Interested participants can sign up on the day of the event.
All the oyster-themed fun will come with an upbeat soundtrack thanks to live music on both sides of campus all day long. An OysterFest staple, Swamp Donkey Newgrass will once again share their unique, high-energy blend of originals and covers at the historic Tolchester Beach Bandstand. There will also be a stage on Fogg’s Landing, including a performance by local sibling trio The Folk Villains, to add to the festive atmosphere.
Throughout the day, the Van Lennep Auditorium will host a variety of guest speakers sponsored by the Upper Shore Regional Folklife Center through the Maryland Traditions Program of the Maryland State Arts Council. Representatives from the Pocomoke Indian Nation, whose ancestral lands span much of lower Delmarva, will be on hand throughout the day to share their history and traditions with guests through presentations and demonstrations.
On Navy Point, the American Chesapeake Club will share demonstrations highlighting the retrieving abilities of its Chesapeake Bay retrievers.
Children can explore life on the Bay through a range of themed, hands-on activities, including lawn games, model boat building, and more. The Phillips Wharf Fishmobile traveling aquarium will be on site, too.
Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase commemorative OysterFest gear in the Museum Store, showcasing this year’s featured historic oyster tin from CBMM’s collection. The one-gallon tin, featuring a silhouetted sailboat underway, was packed by Harrison & Jarboe Seafood Company in the 1950s on CBMM’s Navy Point and marketed as Miles River Brand Oysters. The design will be emblazoned on shirts and hats for purchase, as well as the mugs used for the oyster stew competition.
OysterFest tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the door. Admission is set at $22 for adults, $19 for seniors (65+) and students (17+), $10 for active and retired military members, and $9 for children ages 6-to-17, with all children 5-and-younger admitted free.
CBMM members receive discounted pricing to OysterFest and other annual festivals throughout the year. Adult member tickets are $10, and all children of members (17-and-younger) receive free admission. To support CBMM’s mission as a member and discover all the terrific benefits of membership, visit cbmm.org/memberships or contact Membership Services Coordinator Debbie Ruzicka at 410-745-4991 or druzicka@cbmm.org.
To level up the fun, VIP tickets include festival admission, entry into the oyster stew competition with commemorative mug, access to the VIP Hospitality Lounge with a complimentary bar, an exclusive OysterFest tote bag with giveaways, coupons, and vendor specials, and discounts at the festival bars. The cost is $50 for CBMM members and $80 for non-members.
Make sure you don’t miss a minute of the fun ahead on our waterfront campus with the CBMM Fall Festival Pass! This is your chance to celebrate the best of the Bay at three of our signature festivals–OysterFest, the Holiday Edition of the Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival (Saturday, Nov. 22), and Winter on the Chesapeake (Saturday, Dec. 13)–for the price of two!
During the festival, additional free event parking will be available at St. Michaels Middle/High School, with a complimentary shuttle service running to and from CBMM.
For safety reasons, non-service dogs must be kept home during CBMM festivals, including OysterFest. Carry-on alcohol from dock or land is also prohibited

Bailes de Mi Tierra Dance Performance
2025-10-25 11:00 - 12:00 | Brooklyn Park Branch Library, 1 East 11th Ave, Baltimore, MD, 21225, United States
Celebrate the end of Hispanic Heritage Month and Dia de los Muertos by watching a traditional Mexican folk dance performance by Bailes de Mi Tierra dance group!
¡Para celebrar el fin del Mes de la Herencia Hispana y el Día de los Muertos, les invitamos a presenciar una actuación tradicional de danza folklórica mexicana ofrecida por el grupo Bailes de Mi Tierra!

Beastly Beaded Bracelet Making
2025-10-25 12:00 - 14:00 | Because Science, 1759 columbia rd nw, washington, DC, 20009, United States
Get ready to create a cute, stretchy bracelet that showcases your spooky style! Join us at The Craft Lab, where you can choose from fun plastic and clay beads to design a bracelet that’s uniquely yours.
Why This Activity is Perfect for Creators Aged 6 and Up:
Hands-On Creativity: Enjoy a fun, interactive experience while crafting your own jewelry.
Express Yourself: Choose from a variety of beads to reflect your personal style.
Family-Friendly: Parents and kids can work together to create something special!
Details:
Best For: Kids aged 6 and up, along with adults.
Cost: This event is free for everyone!
Supervision: Children are encouraged to participate with a parent or guardian.

Maryland Maker Day at Rockville Makerspace
2025-10-25 13:30 - 16:00 | Rockville Science Center, hjlichtman@lichtman.ws, Rockville, MD, 20850, United States
MoCo Makers is partnered with the Rockville Science Center to offer this once yearly event. Check out some of the cool projects that local makers and artists are working on. You can learn about how people in our community are using the Rockville Makerspace, what tools are available, and event try your hand at a project yourself!

Intro to GIMP Digital Art
2025-10-25 14:00 - 15:00 | Quince Orchard, 15831 Quince Orchard Road, Gaithersburg, 20878, United States
Learn the basics of the GIMP interface as you customize a rad cartoon cat! For ages 8 to 12.
GIMP is an open-source graphics program—similar to Photoshop, but free! GIMP allows you to create graphics or edit photos using a variety of customizable tools and features. This class will introduce kids to the interface and encourage them to express themselves through digital art! The projects our participants create will be displayed in the library.
This is a pilot program! Two sessions are currently planned, one on October 25th and one on November 8th. At this time, you may take only one class to make sure there is space for everyone! We hope to offer more sessions in the future depending on interest. Adult attendance to assist your child is strongly encouraged, although we won’t have enough computers for adults to participate. Please arrive on time.
This program is for children ages 8 to 12. Registration is required. Sign up online or by calling the Quince Orchard library at 240-777-0200.
Key Terms (to be covered as time allows): layers, transparency, float selection, opacity, color picker, bucket tool, pattern, gradient
The Maryland STEM Festival is a month-long celebration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics designed to advance STEM and STEAM education for children and teens that takes place every fall.
Questions about this program? Contact the Quince Orchard branch at 240-777-0200
Looking for more fun things to do at MCPL? Take a look at these STEM resources available with a library card.
Don’t have a card right now? No worries! Find out how to Get a Library Card.
Library Program Attendance (both virtual and in the branch) is limited to participants within the suggested age range of the program. Children attending an MCPL program under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Adults attending a program intended for children must have an accompanying child.
If you plan to attend with a group of ten or more, please contact the branch at least one week before the program to discuss how your group might be accommodated.

Spooky Slime Making
2025-10-25 14:00 - 16:00 | Because Science, 1759 columbia rd nw, washington, DC, 20009, United States
Join us for a fun and creative slime-making session! Learn how to craft your own slime putty with all the supplies provided, including spooky mix-ins.
Why You’ll Love This Activity:
Hands-On Experience: Perfect for anyone who enjoys getting crafty and learning a bit about slimes.
Take-Home Creation: Leave with your very own custom slime putty!
Details:
Includes All Materials: We supply everything you need to make your slime and bags to take it home
Who Can Join: Open to everyone—adults and kids welcome! Kids under 5 will need parental assistance.

Invisible Ink pH Painting
2025-10-25 16:00 - 18:00 | Because Science, 1759 columbia rd nw, washington, DC, 20009, United States
Use pH indicator paper and everyday liquids to reveal hidden hues and make one-of-a-kind artwork.
Why You’ll Love This Activity:
? Science Meets Art: Explore the magic of acids and bases as pH indicators react to create stunning, unexpected color patterns.
?? Creative & Educational: Perfect for budding artists and curious scientists alike. No two pieces will be the same!

Flying Paper Bat Engineering Challenge
2025-10-26 12:00 - 14:00 | Because Science, 1759 columbia rd nw, washington, DC, 20009, United States
Learn how to make a variety of paper airplane models and turn them into adorable flying bats!
Why This Activity is Perfect for Everyone:
Hands-On Fun: Enjoy a creative challenge and watch your paper bat take flight!
Family-Friendly: This activity is open to both adults and kids, so the whole family can join in.
Take-Home Project: Take your paper bat home for further testing!
Details:
Includes All Materials: We provide everything you need to make your paper bat.
Who Can Join: Adults and kids welcome (Ages 3+.)

Origami
2025-10-26 14:00 - 15:30 | Because Science, 1759 columbia rd nw, washington, DC, 20009, United States
Come learn about the art of folding paper in a guided session led by local origami expert Michiko Okuma!
Why You’ll Love This Activity:
? Art in Motion: Learn the timeless Japanese art of paper folding—from simple shapes to elegant creations that unfold with meaning.
? Celebrate Spooky Season: Learn how to create a variety of Halloween-themed paper masterpieces at varying levels of difficulty.
? Fun for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re brand new to origami or a seasoned folder, gentle guidance makes this experience fun and accessible.
Why This Activity is Perfect for Everyone:
Creative Exploration: Dive into the art of paper folding and craft playable figures.
Guided Support: Receive expert instruction from Michiko, who will guide you step-by-step.
Hands-On Crafting: Ideal for those who love working with their hands and exploring new artistic techniques.
Details:
Includes All Materials: We provide all the paper and tools needed for your creations.
Who Can Join: Open to all ages! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced folder, everyone is welcome. Great for kids and adults alike.
Cost This is a free activity led by Michiko Okuma. Please consider providing a donation/tip so that she continues to come to Because Science to share her talent with us!

Spectral Drawings - Ghost Circuits
2025-10-26 16:00 - 18:00 | Because Science, 1759 columbia rd nw, washington, DC, 20009, United States
Draw with light using wire and circuits- learn how an invisible picture comes to life!
Why You’ll Love This Activity:
Hands-On Experience: Perfect for anyone who enjoys getting crafty.
Details:
Includes All Materials: We supply everything you need to make your drawing!
Who Can Join: Open to everyone—adults and kids welcome! Kids under 10 will need parental assistance.

Little Adventurers
2025-10-27 11:00 - 11:30, 2025-11-03 11:00 - 11:30 | Emmitsburg Library, 300 South Seton Ave, Emmitsburg, MD, 21727, United States
Children learn and explore through hands on activities using science, technology, engineering, art, and math concepts at the library. Caregivers are encouraged to connect with children and participate in the activities!

Basic Design For Kids
2025-10-29 17:30 - 18:30 | PSE Studio, 10945 Price Manor Way, Laurel, 20723, United States
Title: Basic Design for Kids: Where Art Meets Geometry
Description:
What happens when creativity meets math? In this hands-on workshop, students explore shape, color, and composition to understand how artists and designers use geometry to build harmony and structure. Through guided design exercises, children learn to think like both scientists and creators—observing, experimenting, and inventing.
Facilitated by Prof. Dr. Pelin SARIOĞLU ERDOĞDU, a professor and founder of PSE Studio, this session blends design education and visual learning to nurture spatial awareness and imagination. Participants will use paper, pencils, markers and rulers to create their own 2D compositions inspired by design principles such as balance, rhythm, and contrast.
This workshop encourages creative confidence and cross-disciplinary thinking, showing how STEM and the arts work together to inspire new ideas. No previous art or design experience is needed.
Ideal for: Grades 4-8
Duration: 60 minutes
Facilitator: Prof. Dr. Pelin SARIOĞLU ERDOĞDU, Founder of PSE Studio
Website: https://psestud.io/workshops

Full STEAM Ahead!
2025-10-30 10:30 - 11:30 | Perryville Branch Library, 500 Coudon Blvd., Perryville, MD, 21903, United States
Enjoy different STEAM activities each week in this hands-on program for young learners. Program designed for children ages 20 months – early 4s. Siblings welcome.

Discovery Depot: Spooky Science (Grades K-5)
2025-10-30 16:00 - 16:30 | Myersville Community Library, 8 Harp Place, Myersville, MD, 21773, United States
Discover and explore the world around you through science, math, technology, history, art, and literature. Designed for kids in grades K-5. Costumes welcome at today’s program.

Preschool Science: Not-So-Scary Science
2025-10-31 10:00 - 11:00 | Carroll County Public Library Westminster location, 50 East Main Street, Westminster, MD, 21157, United States
Join us as we investigate not-so-scary science! There will be a variety of hands-on learning activities for kids. We will read a book, sing, and have a messy time! Costumes are welcome, but not too spooky.

Mid-Shore S.TE.M. Festival
2025-11-01 09:30 - 13:30 | Eastern Shore Higher Education Center, Chesapeake College, 1000 College Circle, Wye Mills,, MD, 21679, United States
The 8th Annual Mid-Shore S.T.E.M Festival will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at the Eastern Shore Higher Education Center, located on the Chesapeake College campus, in Wye Mills, Maryland. The event will be held rain or shine from 9:30 am – 1:30 pm and is free, open to the public, and geared toward youth ages 8-16. There are special early childhood S.T.E.M activities from 10 am – 12 pm for youth ages 4-7 as well.
The Mid-Shore S.T.E.M Festival is hosted by the University of Maryland Extension 4-H and Family & Consumer Sciences Programs and is focused on providing hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math learning for youth of all ages and their families. Activities will include interactive displays, activity stations, makers space, demonstrations and workshops. This year’s theme is “FrankenSTEM” with many activities focused on the theme, as well as many other STEM topics. Youth are encouraged to come in their Halloween costumes; prizes will be awarded. This is a great event to make career connections and learn about the future of science and science-related careers and opportunities.
Bring your kids to participate during the Maryland STEM Festival here on the mid-shore on November 1st for a fun science-filled day! We will have lunch and refreshments for sale. Remember, the event is FREE and open to all!
For more information, please contact Navonne Owen, UME Caroline County 4-H, at nowen@umd.edu or (410) 479-4030. This is an equal opportunity and equal access program.

HCC Annual STEAM Fest
2025-11-01 10:00 - 14:00 | Hagerstown Community College, 11400 Robinwood Drive ARCC, Hagerstown, MD, 21742, United States
Bring the whole family for a day filled with fun hands-on activities related to STEAM. Activities include the ever popular Egg Drop and Bottle Rocket Challenges, Arts, Pumpkins, Drones and more. Learn about our STEM programs from camps to career training to degree programs. Free Parking and Admission! Free Food!

Family STEAM Lab Drop In
2025-11-01 14:00 - 14:30 | Thurmont Library, 76 East Moser Rd, Thurmont, MD, 21788, United States
Drop in for a hands-on STEM Lab or STEAM Lab opportunity. This program is designed for children in grades K-5 and their caregiver.

Author Panel: The Art and Science of Conservation-event held at Ebenezer Theater
2025-11-02 14:00 - 16:00 | Ebenezer Theater, 17 S. Washington Street, Easton, MD, 21601, United States
n celebration of the tandem centennial birthdays of the Talbot County Free Library and University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, legendary Chesapeake Bay journalist Tom Horton will moderate a panel exploring the art and science of conservation with Creature Needs contributors and award-winning authors Christopher Kondrich and Kyoko Mori. Tickets are free; registration is required.

Día de los muertos
2025-11-03 16:00 - 17:00 | Brooklyn Park Branch Library, 1 East 11th Ave, Baltimore, MD, 21225, United States
Celebrate Día de los Muertos through crafts, activities and more!

MD STEM Fest Challenge
2025-11-04 13:30 - 19:00 | Sharpsburg Library, 106 East Main ST, Sharpesburg, MD, 21782, United States
Stations will be set up with Legos and marble runs. Look through our microscope and magnifying glass, what do you see?

STEAM Lab
2025-11-04 16:30 - 17:00 | C. Burr Artz Library, 110 East Patrick St., Frederick, MD, 21701, United States
Join us for a variety of science, technology, engineering, arts and math activities for elementary-aged children.
