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January 22, 2026

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Happy Birthday to the Adventure Science Center!

For its 80th birthday celebration on Oct. 31, Adventure Science Center will throw it back to the scientific innovations of 1945.

This October 31, Adventure Science Center (ASC) celebrates eight decades of wonder, curiosity and fun!

Families are invited to bring their costumed kiddos (no masks or weapons) for a “spook-tacular” 80th birthday bash packed with hands-on activities inspired by 1945 — the year the ASC first opened their doors.

Adventure Science Center 80th Birthday Bash Activities:

  • Time Capsule Throwback: Step into 1945! They’ve been digging in the archives and can’t wait for you to see what they found.
  • UV + SPF Exploration: See the science behind sunscreen! Experiment with UV light to discover how SPF keeps your skin safe from the sun.
  • Polymer Power: Meet sodium polyacrylate — the “super soaker” material behind everything from diapers to kitty litter! Dive into polymer science and its surprising origins.
  • M&M Fireworks: Watch colors burst as you explore candy dyes and how the iconic M&M has changed since their opening year.
  • DIY Silly Putty: Accidents can lead to awesome! Make your own Silly Putty and learn how one WWII experiment (trying to create synthetic rubber) turned into a toy-box legend.
  • Slinky Science: From a shipyard stumble to a toy sensation — discover the twisty physics of the Slinky.

Event activities are included with general admission ($22 for adults 13 and older; $18 for ages 2 – 12).

For more information, visit adventuresci.org.

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About the Author

Michael Aldrich

Michael Aldrich is Nashville Parent's Managing Editor and a Middle Tennessee arts writer. He and his wife, Alison, are the proud parents of 6-year-old Ezra and 2-year-old Norah.