Photo courtesy of Murfreesboro.com
Story by Delaney Dickey / Contributing Writer
Since its establishment in 1986, the family friendly Discovery Center at Murfree Spring strives to educate the community about science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, otherwise known as STEAM. And because of their dedicated program, the Discovery Center was recently recognized by the Southeast Festivals and Events Association for its first Tennessee STEAM Festival, held at various locations throughout the state last October.
The second annual Tennessee STEAM Festival is scheduled to take place on Oct. 12 and will run until the 21. In the meantime, we’ve compiled a list of other upcoming events to be held at the Discovery Center below.
Call-for-art deadline for “We Are Tennessee” exhibit
On April 28 the Discovery Center will open an exhibit called “We Are Tennessee,” which will explore concepts of the state’s cultural identity and what it means to be a Tennessean. Work of all mediums from Tennesseans of all ages will be displayed in the exhibit. Submissions will be accepted until March 23, and artists will be notified on April 6 whether or not their piece was selected. To learn more about this exhibit and how to submit your work, visit https://explorethedc.org/wearetn/.
Spring Break Camp
Children from kindergarten to fourth grade are welcome to spend their spring break learning about how STEAM is incorporated into their toys. According to the Discovery Center, “each day (they) will focus on a different toy and find the science, technology, engineering, art and math that are hidden in (their) favorite toys.” The camp will run March 26-30, and each day will cost $40 for non-members and $35 for members. More information is available at https://explorethedc.org/camps/.
“Science of Music” exhibit
The Discovery Center’s newest exhibit, “Science of Music,” is open now until May 2, and it teaches children about the different ways science and music are connected. As an interactive exhibit, kids are given the opportunity to get hands-on experience with various instruments. This exhibit is included with general admission and is free for members. You can visit https://explorethedc.org/scienceofmusic/ for more information.
Shakesbeer (21+)
On May 4 the Discovery Center will host an event where people can enjoy a variety of craft brews to sample during various stage performances. According to the Discovery Center, “the event features theatrical performances by the Murfreesboro Little Theatre, M-PROV and Inebriated Shakespeare.” Attendees must be at least 21 years old. If you plan to drink, tickets cost $40, but they’re only $15 if you’re the designated driver. For more information about this event and to purchase tickets, visit https://explorethedc.org/shakesbeer/.
The variety of exhibits and programs is sure to keep both children and adults entertained and educated, so make sure to take advantage of these exhibits and programs. The Discovery Center is located at 502 SE Broad St. in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. They’re open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, check out their website or call (615) 890-2300. More information about the upcoming STEAM Festival can be found at www.tennesseesteamfestival.org.
To contact Lifestyles Editor Tayhlor Stephenson, email lifestyles@mtsusidelines.com.
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