The Center returns with popular fall events and seasonal offerings
(WEST PALM BEACH, FLA) – Crisp autumn days are here again at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium (CSCA)! Experience family fun events, seasonal libations, and some scares in the months ahead that are sure to leave guests fulfilled.
On Thursday, September 21, celebrate the start of harvest with a beer in hand at “Science on Tap” at Grandview Public Market (1401 Clare Ave, West Palm Beach). Attendees will enjoy this equally educational and entertaining event at the price of a cup of coffee, a quality craft beer, or a smooth glass of wine and anyone can come to discuss the latest trends in science and technology with a world-class scientist. With the motto to ‘drink up – get smart,’ you know you are in for a casual education session for guests to have fun while learning a little bit more about everyday curiosities. The evening topic will be “Stealing Sharks and Ravaging Rays: A scientific delve into their impacts on Florida fisheries,” with speaker, Dr. Matt Ajemian. Dr. Ajemian brings a wealth of knowledge as the associate research professor and the director of the Fish Ecology and Conservation Lab at FAU’s Harbor Branch.
Then on Saturday, October 14, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., make it a household outing at the Annual Fall Family Fun Fest! In partnership with A.D. Henderson Foundation, PNC Grow Up Great and Dreher Trail Neighborhood Association, families can experience a day of live entertainment, outdoor games, a mini petting zoo, fall and science-themed crafts, free mini-golf and face painting! Food and drinks will also be onsite for purchase to keep you in the center of the fun. It’s a family affair you won’t want to miss with paid admission to visit all the exhibits inside the facility. For more information, please visit coxsciencecenter.org/fall-family-fun-fest.
Continue your life-long learning – even as a teacher! On Friday, October 13 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., the CSCA invites its community teachers for an exciting professional development day of STEM education and exploration. The School District of Palm Beach County and community STEM organizations will host workshops and vendor booths covering a variety of STEM programming with over 100 STEM exhibits! All PBCSD K-12 educators with a current valid teacher I.D. are welcome. For more information, please visit coxsciencecenter.org/STEM-open-house.
During the spookiest season of the year, maximize your Halloween spirit with the CSCA’s Spooky Science Laser Lights & Bites! On Friday, October 27 between 6 and 9 p.m., have a terrifying good time with smashing pumpkin demonstrations, exploring an Eerie Abyss and get a sugar rush at the many treat giveaway stations. Also, don’t miss the main event – the Halloween-themed laser concert at 8:20 p.m. Tickets are available online and at the door. More information can be found at coxsciencecenter.org/event/spooky-science.
“This is my favorite time of year, and it’s more special with our guests along for the fun,” said CSCA President and CEO, Kate Arrizza. “We have something that speaks to every age group and leaves them walking away with cozy fall memories.”
Also, thinking of day camps for fall breaks? Consider the CSCA’s science and tech camps for your curious and hands-on kiddos. Now until February 19, parents and guardians can register children between the ages of 5 and 12 to participate in camp sessions ranging from Swashbuckling Science to becoming a Junior Master Gardener! Camps run between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. with late fees after 4:30 p.m. The CSCA offers scholarships for Title 1 Students in Palm Beach County thanks to Kids’ Dreams. To register, please visit coxsciencecenter.org/camps.
Finally, on Thursday, November 16, between 6 and 9 p.m., guests 21 and older can unpack all flavor profiles and chemical reactions behind their favorite cocktails at MolecuBar during the CSCA’s after hours. Explore interactive mixology demos, sample bites with local flare and be the judge at the molecular gastronomy competition! Between the evening’s activities, take a look inside the latest Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition where guests can experience the real stories of heroism, love, fear, and impossible decisions in the face of the “unsinkable” ocean liner meeting its fate. Advance tickets are $23 and $28 at the door; VIP tickets are $50. Member discounts will be honored at all times. To register for MolecuBar, please visit coxsciencecenter.org/molecubar.
The Cox Science Center and Aquarium’s current indoor/outdoor venue features more than 100 hands-on educational exhibits, a 10,000-gallon fresh and saltwater aquarium, digital planetarium, Pre-K focused “Discovery Center,” 18-hole conservation-themed mini-golf course and quarter-mile-long outdoor science trail. One of its celebrated displays includes “Journey Through the Human Brain,” a permanent exhibit that features the most advanced neuroscience research in the world. The Cox Amphitheater hosts daily live science shows, seasonal laser shows, and special event programming. The Science Center took on a new name at the end of 2021 when leadership announced a $20 million gift from Palm Beachers, Howard and Wendy Cox, to launch a transformative capital expansion campaign. Shovels will be going in the ground late fall 2023, with a target completion date of 2026. To learn more, visit coxsciencecenter.org/support-us.
General admission for adults is $24, $20 for children ages 3-12, $22 for seniors ages 60 & older, free for children under 3 years of age and CSCA members.