Participate in Science City

Engage curious minds in Science City at the Tucson Festival of Books

Science City is home to five themed “neighborhoods” plus the Science Café and there are campus tours/open houses. Science City welcomes academic programs, non-profits, researchers, industries, and arts organizations to advance STEM literacy through accessible, hands-on educational activities. Participation is free for accepted organizations. The Science City application goes live on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, for the March 14-15, 2026, Tucson Festival of Books. Applications accepted until November 17, 2025. How to participate in Science City: 

1. Submit a participant application and select a themed neighborhood. Or submit an application to offer an Open Hour or Tour of your on-campus facility. The Science Café offers a small stage for informal talks and exhibitions of 60-90 minutes. Café inquiries are handled via email. 
• Science of Art
• Science of Everyday Life
• Science of the Natural World
• Science of Tomorrow
• Science of You
2. Describe the educational activities and tools/equipment/items at your station 
3. Commit to full participation from 9:30am to 5:30pm on both Saturday and Sunday 
4. Staff your station with volunteers or employees
5. Provide your social media and website details for TFOB promotion  
6. Attend the Science City Participant orientation in February
7. Engage with thousands of festival goers and share the wonders of STEM innovation 

Science City co-chair Cara Shopa is available to address questions and to brainstorm appropriate activities: 520-621-3791 or sciencecity@tucsonfestivalofbooks.org. Science Café programming is handled by email request ~ please email sciencecity@tucsonfestivalofbooks.org.