The Tennessee STEAM Festival brings science, technology, engineering, art, and math to life at events all across the state during two weeks in October!
Curiosity meets creativity during the Tennessee STEAM Festival! Each year, science, technology, engineering, art, and math unite to spark wonder in learners of all ages. From hands-on workshops to immersive pop-ups, guided tours and staff-led-demonstrations, this two-week celebration features events for all ages covering a variety of topics specific to your local community.
Whether you're a student or lifelong learner, the STEAM Festival offers a look into the unique career opportunities that exist right here in Tennessee! From classroom lessons to real-life adventures, the Festival brings learning to life by helping kids imagine future careers and showing how their ideas can change the world. It’s also a chance for families to explore amazing community organizations they may not have known about before.
Ready to get involved?
WHAT IT IS
By connecting curiosity to careers we aim to fill gaps in the existing workforce and inspire our future workforce to seek careers in STEAM fields in Tennessee’s fast-growing and diversifying economic climate. Evaluation from the National Science Festival Alliance has shown that these events increase awareness of STEAM careers.
VISION
The Tennessee STEAM Festival aspires to build interest and excitement in STEAM, and cultivate the next generation of citizen and professional science advocates and practitioners by leveraging local partnerships from across the region. The Discovery Center is leading the statewide effort.
IMPACT
The inaugural Tennessee STEAM Festival took place in October 2017. The Festival went well beyond the walls of children’s museums and science centers and into our businesses, universities, schools, and neighborhoods. From families to young adults, Tennesseans of all ages and backgrounds interacted with scientists, engineers, and designers and just about every sort of expert in between.
JOIN THE FUN!
STEAM-a-Palooza @ Discovery Center | Oct. 11, 2025 Click to learn more!
AWARDS
Award of Excellence
Tennessee Association of Museums (TAM)
ChemLuminary Award
American Chemical Society for Outstanding Continuing Public Relations Program of a Local Section
Nashville Local Section
Bronze Kaleidoscope Award
“Best New Event in the Southeast”
Southeast Festivals & Events Association (SFEA)