SBCC Hosts Annual Science Discovery Day

Free family event showcases the wonders of science with interactive displays and hands-on activities

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Santa Barbara City College is hosting its annual Science Discovery Day on Saturday, March 14th from 1-4 PM at the East Cliff Campus. The free event, presented by the SBCC STEM Transfer Program, will feature a variety of interactive exhibits and activities for all ages, including stargazing, a chemistry lab, fossil examination, and more. The event also includes a High-tech Industry Pavilion with demonstrations from local companies.

Why it matters

Science Discovery Day provides an opportunity for the community to engage with STEM fields and learn about the cutting-edge science and technology being developed in the local region. The event aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers by making science fun and accessible for all.

The details

Attendees can explore the sky through solar telescopes, shape landscapes in an augmented reality sandbox, examine microfossils and large fossils, identify minerals and rocks, and create 'comets' using dry ice. They can also meet creatures in biology classrooms, conduct experiments at chemistry stations, and learn about patterns and predictions from math students. The High-tech Industry Pavilion will showcase demonstrations from local companies.

  • Science Discovery Day will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 1-4 PM.

The players

Santa Barbara City College (SBCC)

A community college established in 1909, SBCC offers a range of associate degree, certificate, and transfer programs and is recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.

SBCC STEM Transfer Program

The program that is presenting the Science Discovery Day event to showcase the wonders of science and technology.

Virginia Estrella

The STEM Transfer Program coordinator at SBCC.

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What they’re saying

“This event is family-friendly and showcases the pride our faculty and students have for their academic department as well as their excitement in exploring the world of science here at SBCC.”

— Virginia Estrella, STEM Transfer Program coordinator (independent.com)

What’s next

The event is free and open to the public, with parking available anywhere on the SBCC East Cliff Campus. Event maps will be provided at the welcome desk in front of the Campus Store.

The takeaway

Science Discovery Day provides a unique opportunity for the Santa Barbara community to engage with STEM fields and learn about the innovative science and technology being developed locally. The hands-on activities and interactive exhibits aim to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.