SCHOOL EVENTS and FESTIVALS

Annual events for K-12 students

Plan your next visit to the museum during one of our annual education events!

With hands-on activities, performances, community collaborations and more, your students will engage in a variety of experiences and leave feeling inspired! And, educators can fulfill select Indiana Academic Standards too.

To schedule your next field trip, find details below.

Tinkerfest

Tinkerfest is a two-day celebration of curiosity and creativity for all ages! Explore more than 30 interactive, hands-on activities hosted by community exhibitors designed to engage and inspire your inner builder, coder, scientist, artist and tinkerer. Each activity invites children and families to make, invent and play! As part of our America 250th celebration, grab a map and tour the galleries to find the diverse, innovative stories of Hoosier’s contributions to our nation.

Friday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. for school visitors
Saturday, Sept. 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. for public visitors
Grades K-12
Included with field trip admission

Native Americans: Beyond the History Book

November is Native American Heritage month. Join the Indiana Native American Indian Affairs Commission and the Indiana State Museum for a special day of learning and exploring Native American’s continued impact in the community, Indiana and beyond.

Nov. 12, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Grades K-12
Included with field trip admission

Pinewood Derby®

On your mark, get set … for the second-greatest spectacle in racing! The Indiana State Museum and Scouting America, Crossroads of America Council invite you to build and race Pinewood Derby® cars down the two-story, 125-foot racetrack and watch them speed across the finish line!

March 24-27, 31 & April 1, 2 & 4, 2027 with Race Day on April 3, 2027, 10 a.m.-5 p.m
Grades K-12
Included with field trip admission

Eco-Science Challenge

Innovative Hoosier students are invited to get involved in becoming the solution to global climate issues. Students can submit science challenge projects on a range of topics including aquaculture, vermiculture, composting, social awareness, urban farming, alternative energy and recycling initiatives in their schools and communities. Monetary prizes will be awarded to the schools of the winning students to assist in continuing eco-science-related work. Download the eco-science rubric below. Application available here soon.

April 23, 2027, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Application deadline: April 9
Grades K-12
Included with field trip admission