Kid-Friendly Activities at Maker Faire

It’s Maker Faire weekend in the Bay Area! Check out this round-up of some of the kid-friendly performances, exhibits, and activities taking place Saturday and Sunday at the San Mateo Event Center. The full program and map are available online, as are tickets.

The West Lot houses some of the biggest draws of Maker Faire. Be sure to check out the Life Size Mousetrap, a super-sized version of the classic board game, and the Coke Zero and Mentos Fountains, where synchronized geysers of soda create a fun, sticky display. And in the South Lot, look for the Power Racing and Death Defying Figure 8 Pedal Car Races to watch some high-speed action.

Stroll through the Homegrown Village to sample food and drinks and learn about growing, making and preserving your own food. As you leave, be sure to check out Rory the Rhino by Kinetic Creatures in The Yard outside. Kids (and adults) can ride the bike-powered cardboard rhinoceros.

The darkened Fiesta Hall showcases exhibits with blinking, glowing and sparkling elements. One popular attraction is Arc Attack, an electrifying musical performance featuring high voltage Tesla coils. Next door, the Expo Hall is packed with booths demoing everything from craft techniques to the latest in 3D printing. Look in particular for The Hello World Program and their Robot Puppet Party.

This is just a handful of the 900+ exhibits at the Faire: there are tons more workshops, talks, demos and activities. Get out and explore!