Join the fun as Segerstrom Center for the Arts transforms into a vibrant playground of discovery for its fifth annual Beckman Arts & Science Family Festival on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:30 pm – 2:30 pm.
The event will be held within the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza and is a free event, no tickets required, the SCFTA said in a statement.
This fan-favorite community festival brings together the world of art and science, inviting Orange County families to explore live performances, hands-on experiments, interactive art-making, and engaging exhibits presented in partnership with over 20 local organizations.
Young explorers and lifelong learners can dive into engaging workshops, experience science in motion, and witness how art and technology come together in surprising and inspiring ways. Designed to ignite a passion for both disciplines, the festival offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn, play, and create. Don’t miss out on this family outing perfect for all ages!
“At Segerstrom Center for the Arts, we are proud to produce the Beckman Arts and Science Family Festival and welcome families to explore the powerful connection between creativity and discovery,” said Lisa Morabito Petersen, Vice President of Education and Engagement at Segerstrom Center for the Arts,
The arts, like science, are rooted in experimentation, she said, pushing boundaries, testing new ideas, and sharing those discoveries with the world. Our partnership with the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation reflects a shared commitment to curiosity, innovation, and learning.
“Together, we celebrate how the intersection of arts and sciences enriches the human experience and deepens our understanding of the world around us,” said Peterson.
Participating community organizations will include the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation, Bionerds, Inc., Brain Builders STEM Education, Inc., Bytes and Bots, Child Creativity Lab, Club SciKidz Orange County and South Bay, Crystal Cove Conservancy, Environmental Nature Center, Girls IN Focus, Girls Inc. of Orange County, Inside the Outdoors (OC Dept. of Education), Kaiser Permanente, Laguna Ocean Foundation, Orange Coast College Astronomy, Orange County 4-H, Orange County Coastkeeper, Orange County Science and Engineering Fair, Play-well TEKnologies, Rolling Robots, Santa Ana Zoo, Science Heads Inc., STEAM for All, S.T.E.A.M. Race to Space Reading Challenge,and Urban Workshop.
This year’s lineup adds even more excitement, featuring the comedic, science-fueled antics of Alex Zerbe “The Zaniac,” interactive percussion group DrumatiX, vocal favorites The Alley Cats, and the gravity-defying circus artistry of Circo Etereo—bringing together entertainment and education in a way that’s both accessible and inspiring.
In addition to the exciting lineup of performers, blending entertainment with creativity and discovery, food and beverages will be available for purchase at George’s Café and local food trucks.
Attendees are also welcome to bring their own refreshments; outside alcohol, glass containers, tables, barbecues, and food preparation will not be permitted on the Plaza, the Segerstrom announced.
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