MAIN STAGE

 

The festival will feature a Main Stage with science fun and interactive demonstrations suitable for students from kindergarten to twelfth grade. The entire family can enjoy these presentations that are educational and inspiring for everyone.

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Main Stage Schedule:

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SATURDAY  APRIL 5th

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10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Sebastian - The Geometry of Space and Time  

Sebastian is a contemporary artist from Chihuahua, Mexico who is recognized internationally for his monumental sculptures. Throughout his artistic career, Sebastián has produced over 180 public artworks in many places around the world, and has participated in several hundred exhibitions in many galleries and museums. Sebastián holds five honorary doctorates for his studies in math, geometry, and science.  This presentation includes sculptures from his Transformables, Quantics, and Parallel Universes series.​​​​​​​ (In Juarez Room)

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11:45 AM - 12:00 PM

Cruzando Puentes: Honoring Dr. Jorge López: A Trailblazer in Physics and STEM Education

At the El Paso Science Festival, we are proud to recognize Dr. Jorge López, a distinguished physicist whose groundbreaking research and unwavering commitment to STEM education have inspired countless students and scientists. As a leading voice in nuclear physics and a passionate advocate for diversity in science, Dr. López has not only advanced our understanding of the universe but has also opened doors for underrepresented communities in STEM.

Join us as we honor Dr. López on the main stage, celebrating his remarkable contributions and lifelong dedication to science, education, and the future of innovation , followed by a series of interesting and interactive science lectures in the Juarez room.

                                

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

"It's Not Magic! It's Science!" with Jay Flores (First show)

Prepare to be amazed as Jay Flores brings the wonder of science to life in "It's Not Magic! It's Science!" This high-energy, interactive presentation will challenge everything you thought you knew about the impossible. With electrifying experiments, mind-bending demonstrations, and a contagious enthusiasm for STEM, Jay reveals the real science behind what might seem like magic.

Get ready to be inspired, engaged, and maybe even a little shocked—because when you understand the science, you have the power to make the impossible possible! Don’t miss this unforgettable experience on the main stage!

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2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

INSIGHTS On Stage: Exploration and Demonstrations of Science!

Get ready for an explosive mix of fun, learning, and jaw-dropping science in this live stage show presented by INSIGHTS, featuring dynamic demonstrations by students and educators that bring physics and chemistry to life in the most unforgettable ways.

Here’s what you’ll experience:

• Power Splash!
  Witness what happens when alcohol vapor meets flame inside a sealed container—resulting in a rapid pressure shift and a surprising splash of water. It’s loud, fast, and unforgettable!

• Newton’s Got Me Floatin’!
  Students from Eastwood High School demonstrate the science behind a hoverboard and explain Newton’s Laws of Motion in a friction-free environment using free-body diagrams and real-world physics.

• Bye-Bye to Order, Hello Chaos!
  A homemade pendulum wave machine made with billiard balls reveals how mechanical waves evolve over time—creating mesmerizing, hypnotic patterns that show beauty in chaos.

• Get to the Point Already!
  It’s a nail-biting demonstration—literally! A presenter lies on a bed of nails while a cinder block is broken on their chest, all to illustrate Newton’s Laws and the physics of pressure and inertia.

• Crushin’ It!
  Watch in awe as a 55-gallon oil drum is crushed using nothing but the force of air pressure and condensation. This dramatic demo reveals the hidden power of the atmosphere.

• The Newtonian Grand Popoff!
  A mini-rocket finale like no other! Hundreds of small rockets are launched using chemical reactions and pressure, showcasing Newton’s Laws in explosive fashion.

• Special Recognition by representatives from the Office of Rene Canales (District 8)

Science has never been this exciting—don’t miss INSIGHTS On Stage, where education and entertainment collide!

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​​3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

"It's Not Magic! It's Science!" with Jay Flores  (Second show)

Prepare to be amazed as Jay Flores brings the wonder of science to life in "It's Not Magic! It's Science!" This high-energy, interactive presentation will challenge everything you thought you knew about the impossible. With electrifying experiments, mind-bending demonstrations, and a contagious enthusiasm for STEM, Jay reveals the real science behind what might seem like magic.

Get ready to be inspired, engaged, and maybe even a little shocked—because when you understand the science, you have the power to make the impossible possible! Don’t miss this unforgettable experience on the main stage!

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5:00 PM - 6:00  PM

"Consejos de Mis Padres" – Words from My Parents

Behind every great scientist and engineer, there’s a story of resilience, determination, and timeless wisdom passed down from their parents. In this inspiring panel, five highly successful engineers and scientists will share the powerful words, lessons, and advice that shaped their journeys—from childhood dreams to groundbreaking careers.

What did their parents say that kept them going through challenges? How did simple words of encouragement become the foundation of their success? This heartfelt discussion will remind us all that the greatest motivators in life often come from home.

Parents, students, and dreamers—come be inspired by the wisdom that builds futures!

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SUNDAY  APRIL 6th

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10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

The Physics Circus – A Spectacle of Science! 🎪⚡

Step into a world where science takes center stage! The Physics Circus, a long-standing tradition from UTEP, transforms complex physics concepts into a jaw-dropping, action-packed performance that will leave you in awe.

For over two decades, this electrifying show has inspired audiences with astonishing demonstrations that make physics unforgettable. You’ll witness things like:

🔵 Objects floating in midair—is it magic or science?
🔵 Explosive experiments that showcase the power of energy and motion
🔵 Daring stunts that defy expectations and reveal the hidden forces of nature
🔵 Mind-bending illusions that turn everyday physics into a spectacle

More than just entertainment, the Physics Circus is an interactive journey into the wonders of the physical world, blending fun, learning, and hands-on audience participation.

Be amazed. Be inspired. Be part of the show! The Physics Circus is rolling onto the main stage—don’t miss this unforgettable experience!

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11:30 AM - 12:15 PM

Mayan Constellations & The Time Machine – A Journey Through the Ancient Skies 🌌

​Travel back in time and explore the cosmos through the eyes of the ancient Maya! In this breathtaking presentation, Antonio Gómez will unveil the secrets of Mayan astronomy, a civilization that mapped the heavens with astonishing precision long before modern telescopes.

Prepare to be transported into the Mayan night sky, where constellations tell stories, celestial cycles guide time, and ancient wisdom connects the Earth to the cosmos. Through interactive visuals and immersive storytelling, you’ll discover:

✨ How the Maya used the stars to create one of the most advanced calendrical systems in history
✨ The incredible mathematical and astronomical knowledge that helped them predict eclipses and planetary movements
✨ The Mayan "Time Machine"—an interactive demonstration that will take you to the ancient  past to a time when the Maya civilization flourished.

This is not just a lesson in history—it’s a cosmic adventure that blends science, culture, and the mysteries of the universe

Step into the past, gaze into the future, and witness the brilliance of Mayan astronomy—only on the main stage! 🚀🌠

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1:00 PM - 1:45 PM

UTEP: The Chemistry Circus

Experience the Chemistry Circus: a dynamic showcase of fundamental chemical concepts presented creatively by the UTEP American Chemical Society Student Member chapter. Delighting K-12 audiences with engaging performances aligned with Texas science standards, this experiential happening inspires over 20,000 yearly attendees to envision exciting paths in science.

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2:15 PM - 3:15 PM

Wonderfest – The Ultimate Science Spectacle! 🔥⚡🎉

Get ready for an action-packed, high-energy science extravaganza that will leave you amazed, stupefied, and hungry for more! Wonderfest brings an electrifying mix of mind-blowing physics and chemistry demonstrations that challenge what you think is possible.

🔥 Ice on Fire? Watch as the impossible comes to life!
🎩 Disappearing Act? Science or sorcery? You decide!
⚡ The Arc of Frankenstein? Feel the power of electrifying energy!
🏓 Ping-Pong Blast? Witness forces in action like never before!
💨 Vortex Cannon? Experience the shocking power of air in motion!

From fiery stunts to shocking surprises, Wonderfest is the ultimate blend of science, spectacle, and sheer fun. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just love a good show, this is one presentation you do not want to miss!

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4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

From the Fields to the Stars – Astronaut José Hernández’s Incredible Journey 🚀✨

Imagine dreaming of the stars while working in the fields—and then making that dream a reality. Astronaut José Hernández defied the odds, overcame rejection, and launched himself into space, proving that perseverance, education, and determination can break any barrier.

In this captivating presentation, Hernández shares his extraordinary journey from migrant farmworker to NASA astronaut, revealing the challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs that led him to orbit the Earth aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery. Through personal stories, powerful lessons, and a message of resilience, he will inspire you to reach for your own dreams—no matter how impossible they may seem.

🚀 How do you go from being told "no" 11 times to finally becoming an astronaut?
🚀 What does it feel like to launch into space and look down at Earth?
🚀 What lessons can we all learn from his story to overcome obstacles in our own lives?

This is more than just a talk—it’s a call to dream big, work hard, and never give up. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or someone chasing a goal, this is the inspiration you’ve been waiting for!

Join us on the main stage for a journey that proves the sky is NOT the limit! 🌎🚀

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