The Big Muddy Mini Maker Faire is Coming to Northwest Missouri and the Call for Makers is Open

The Greatest Show (and Tell) on Earth is coming to St. Joseph on March 3, 2018 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Big Muddy Mini Maker Faire will debut at the Restoration Natatorium on North Second and Francis Streets in St. Joseph, MO.

What is a Maker Faire? The event is part science fair, part county fair, and part something entirely new. This family-friendly showcase of invention and creativity brings together tech enthusiasts, educators, tinkerers, hobbyists, engineers, artists, students, and commercial exhibitors – all known by the name “Makers”.  Makers come to a “Maker Faire” to showcase their creations and share their discoveries with others.

Why a Mini Maker Faire? A regional group interested in promoting Science, Technology, Engineering/Entrepreneurship, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) felt that bringing a faire to our area would be a fun way to encourage participation in those areas. The Faire Leadership Team includes representatives from the Allied Arts Council, City of St. Joseph, Community Members, East Buchanan School District, Heartland Foundation, Restoration Natatorium, St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce, and Missouri Western State University. Heartland Foundation (a 501(c)3) organization is serving as fiscal agent and convener.

What might be showcased at a Mini Maker Faire? The faire hopes to feature an array of makers including drones, electric vehicles, electronics, hands-on demonstrations, how-to fix things like appliances and clocks, interactive exhibits and art projects, inventions, kit makers, puppets, kites, radios, computers, game systems, robotic, rockets, remote controlled toys, science projects, technology, and even unusual tools or machines. Additionally, the faire stage will showcase makers, inventions, and projects. Makers of all types and ages are invited to apply! Food vendors will also be available.

How do Makers apply? Makers will apply online at thebigmuddy.makerfaire.com. A team will review the applications and ensure a variety of Makers are showcased. There is no cost for Makers to showcase their projects if they are not selling anything. Makers who do have items to sell will have a fee to pay.

What age range is appropriate to attend or participate in the faire? The Big Muddy Mini Maker Faire is open for all ages; youth, adults and seniors should all find areas of interest at the faire.

How may I get involved? To sign up as a maker, volunteer, or sponsor, visit The Big Muddy Mini Maker Faire website mentioned earlier.

Additional information: The Restoration Natatorium is a most appropriate venue for the Mini Maker Faire. The location is only a few blocks east of the river from which the faire takes its name. The faire coincides with the First Saturdays Downtown event that takes place each month. The faire will be open to the public for a nominal fee. For more information call 816-271-7571.

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