Explore the Science Behind Nikola Tesla's Innovations at Tesla Fest

Science lovers of all ages are invited to celebrate one of history’s greatest inventors during Tesla Fest at Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs.

The annual event returns from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 11, honoring the life and scientific legacy of Nikola Tesla. Held each year on the Saturday closest to Tesla’s July 10 birthday, this year’s celebration marks the inventor’s 170th birthday.

Known for developing alternating current electrical systems and the Tesla coil, Tesla’s groundbreaking work continues to shape modern technology. Throughout the day, visitors can explore hands-on activities and live demonstrations inspired by his inventions.

Activities include:

Electric Pickle: Participants will use the museum’s Big Wheel generator to pass electricity through a pickle, causing its electrolytes to illuminate, a demonstration of electrical conductivity.
Dashbot: Explore Tesla’s pioneering work with remote-controlled watercraft and its connection to today’s drone and remote-control technology.
Snap Circuits and Homemade Switches/Circuit Blocks: Hands-on circuit-building activities for visitors.
Live Tesla Shows: Ticketed live demonstrations will take place at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the Dorothy Van Lue & Albert F.W. Habeeb Tesla Theater, home to the World’s Most Powerful Conical Tesla Coil, recognized by Guinness World Records.

“Tesla Fest is one of our favorite days of the year because it gives us the opportunity to connect visitors–especially young people–directly to the science behind the technologies they use every day,” said Diane LaFollette, CEO of Mid-America Science Museum. “Nikola Tesla’s work was nothing short of revolutionary, and we think celebrating his 170th birthday is a meaningful way to inspire the next generation of scientists and inventors right here in Hot Springs.”

In addition to Tesla Fest activities, guests can also explore Expedition: Dinosaur, the museum’s newest traveling exhibition from Stage 9 Exhibits. On display through Aug. 16, the exhibit features animatronic dinosaurs and interactive experiences, including fossil excavation, specimen examination, dinosaur egg scanning and Pangea map building.

Tesla Fest is included with general museum admission. Tickets are available online or by calling (501) 767-3461.