Each spring for the last six years, the Philadelphia Science Festival has turned the city into one big classroom, with lively, entertaining, and hands-on lessons.

Since the Festival’s inaugural year, Penn has had a major presence, and this year will be no different. Already, dozens of faculty, staff, and students have been planning ways to get engaged, and for those still interested, there is plenty of time to find a way to take part.

Coordinating Penn’s involvement this year is Jane Horwitz, director of the University’s Science Outreach Initiative (SOI). While the primary role of the SOI is providing support to researchers on the Broader Impacts component of National Science Foundation-funded projects in the School of Arts & Sciences, this year Horwitz is working with scientists and science-lovers all across campus to help share their expertise with the larger Philadelphia community. The Festival, she says, is a win-win for Penn and the city.

“This weeklong, annual event provides a focal point for our cross-campus STEM outreach activities, and often leads to ongoing collaborations that further public understanding and engagement,” Horwitz says. “An added bonus is that we all have fun doing it.”

Some of the signature events of the Festival will occur on and around Penn’s campus. Clark Park, for example, will host a “Science in the Park” event on Saturday, April 22, a family-friendly event full of hands-on STEM activities. And on Sunday, April 23, three “Be a Scientist for a Day” events—at the Penn Museum, the Pennovation Center, and Pennsylvania Hospital—will give participants a behind-the-scenes look at careers in science, engineering, and health.

Other popular offerings are the Science After School programs. Held at various Free Library of Philadelphia locations from April 24 to 27, these afternoon activities aim to inspire and recruit the next generation of scientists. Sign-up for these events here.

The highlight of the Festival for many is the Science Carnival, held this year on Saturday, April 29, at Penn’s Landing. Early bird registration closes Wednesday, March 1, and registration closes altogether by Friday, March 17. Penn groups can also apply for one of Penn’s complimentary booths by submitting an application by Friday, Feb. 17. Contact Horwitz at janeh@sas.upenn.edu for details.

To submit activity ideas or to volunteer, visit the PSF website. For more information, including finding other ways to get involved, contact Horwitz at janeh@sas.upenn.edu.

“There are still opportunities for people to sign up to present or participate in a myriad of activities,” she says.