Maker Faires, geographically dispersed as they are, tend to have their own local color. Just like you may find specific things that a city is known for, the corresponding Maker Faire typically has some of its own unique experiences. Here are the 5 things from Maker Faire Kansas City that I’m most excited to see when I visit on June 25th and 26th.
Union Station
I love this building. It was once a very busy train station and hub. During the 1980’s it was in a sad state, and nearly scheduled for demolition. It has since been revitalized and brought back to its former beauty. The facility now houses cafes, a science center, planetarium, history museum, and makerspace. Oh, and you can still catch a train there! It is not only beautiful, but a truly fun experience to visit even when Maker Faire isn’t there!
Hammerspace Community Workshop
Every year the crew from Hammerspace brings something incredible. A few years ago I was blown away by the starship simulator (a full sized starship bridge, seriously check it out) that they assembled, and this year I’m eager to see their “Push Button – Receive Bacon” machine. Makerspaces are great in general, but this one specifically seems to always have a really cool community project to display.
Low Riders
I like cars. I don’t get all excited about big engines though, what I like are unique works of art or rare sights. Lowriders just happen to all be unique and interesting. I can’t wait to see what they’re bringing this year for me to feast my eyes on. From rich colors to detailed custom upholstery, there’s always something to ogle at the lowrider show.
Maker Couture
The maker fashion show isn’t exclusive to K.C. but I’m looking forward to it anyway. I’ve never considered myself a fan of fashion, but this show absolutely blew me away. So many inventive and interesting uses of materials and technology!
Barbecue
This Maker Faire just wouldn’t feel right without the sweet residue of barbecue on my lips. Kansas City is known for its barbecue and that isn’t left out of the Faire. If delicious grilled food isn’t to your liking, you’ll surely find something incredible at one of the other food trucks in attendance.
These items may not be the most exciting things at the Faire. There will be 3D printing, cosplay, incredible amounts of hand-made goods, and I’m sure there will be a few surprises too. These are just the things that I look forward to when I hop in my car and start driving in that direction.
Here are a few highlights from 2015 to give you a feel for it
This year, I’ll be giving a talk as well. I’ll be discussing how the DIY community is still alive and well in the world virtual reality. If you’d like to be part of that discussion, be sure to find me on stage Saturday afternoon!
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