MAINSTREET AND CREATIVE DISTRICT News:

The Los Alamos ScienceFest is preparing for an exciting new chapter in 2026, with new dates, partners and an expanded approach designed to engage visitors of all ages through community collaboration across the region.

One strategic shift is the move to September, designed to foster deeper collaboration with local schools and universities while aligning with the region’s peak tourism season. Fall is a premier travel window for New Mexico, nestled between local art studio tours, food and wine festivals, and the lead-up to the Balloon Fiesta.

Furthermore, Los Alamos MainStreet and Creative District are laying the groundwork for a statewide science festival by piloting a regional model in 2026.

Stay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding new partners and the full New Mexico ScienceFest schedule.

Los Alamos ScienceFest 2026 Introduces New Discovery Day & Discovery After Dark Experiences
From Sept. 18-26, ScienceFest will again bring together local and regional organizations, educational institutions, businesses, artists and science professionals to celebrate science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM).

The festival is organized by Los Alamos MainStreet & Creative District in partnership with dozens of participating organizations and sponsors.

This year’s festival will feature a reimagined schedule for its signature Discovery events. Discovery Day will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 26, offering families and attendees an opportunity to explore interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on activities presented by participating organizations throughout downtown Los Alamos.

In addition, ScienceFest is expanding its popular evening programming with Discovery After Dark, a separate 18 and older experience scheduled from 5–8 p.m. Sept. 26. Designed specifically for adults, the event will feature immersive STEAM-inspired activities, social experiences, and opportunities for participants to engage with science in creative and unexpected ways.

“ScienceFest continues to evolve as a community-driven celebration of discovery and innovation,” organizers said. “By creating distinct daytime and evening experiences, we hope to provide even more opportunities for people to connect with science, creativity, and each other.”