What do compost piles and circus acts have in common?

They both turn a big mess into something amazing — with a little balance and teamwork! 🌱🤹

Join us for a weekend of wonder at ScienceWorks!

On Saturday, Sept 6, step right up for Cirque De ScienceWorks — enjoy circus-themed activities, sweet treats, and a special Q&A with Flynn Creek Circus artists. Then, on Sunday, Sept 7, dig into the science of compost with hands-on fun and insights from the Ashland Climate Collaborative.

Two days, two amazing adventures — all free with admission or membership!

Cirque De ScienceWorks

Flynn Creek Circus is in town and so we’re celebrating the magic of the circus on Saturday, Sept 6 with hands-on fun, circus-inspired activities, sweet treats, and special guests. 

• At noon meet the incredible Flynn Creek Circus artists in a special Q&A in the Science Theatre — your chance to hear behind-the-scenes stories and ask questions about life under the big top.
• Try your hand at balloon animals, plate spinning, beginner-friendly optical illusions, and even test your balance on our “stepping stones” walk.
• Play circus-themed games in the Galaxy Classroom, hosted by Funagain Games.
• Pick up some popcorn and cotton candy to snack on while you explore circus skills, creativity, and curiosity.

Whether you’re juggling, balancing, or simply enjoying the show, the circus truly comes alive when YOU join the fun!

📅 Saturday, September 6
⏰ 11 AM to 2 PM
📍 ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum
💰 Free with membership or admission

Also on Sept 6, aspiring performers ages 7–18 can step into the spotlight at the Flynn Creek Youth Circus Clinic, a half-day workshop 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM under the Big Top — where award-winning coaches will teach acrobatics, aerials, and more! Register at FlynnCreek.com

Compost in a Jar: A Hands-On Workshop

What happens to banana peels, apple cores, or coffee grounds when you toss them into the compost? Families can discover the science of decomposition up close with Compost in a Jar, a special workshop facilitated by experts from the Ashland Climate Collaborative.

On Sunday, September 7, from 11 AM to 2 PM, participants of all ages will roll up their sleeves and build their very own miniature compost system inside a glass jar. With a little bit of food scraps, dry leaves, paper, soil, and water, plus a lid with small ventilation holes, participants will set the stage for nature’s recyclers — microbes and fungi — to get to work.

The process doesn’t end at the museum. Each visitor will take their jar home, complete with instructions for care. Over the weeks that follow, you’ll be able to watch the contents slowly transform into rich compost. Families are encouraged to photograph the jars at different stages to document the changes. You'll see science in action right on your windowsill!

Volunteers from Ashland Climate Collaborative, including master composters, will be on hand to guide participants step by step, share tips, and answer questions about composting and food waste prevention. Expect a little bit of mess (because science is hands-on!) and a lot of curiosity. All supplies will be provided.

This activity is part of the Climate Collaborative’s September focus on composting and food waste reduction. By creating a compost jar, families can explore how simple choices, like keeping food waste out of the landfill, can have a real impact on our climate.

Best of all, September 7 is First Sunday at ScienceWorks — admission is only $5 per person.

Whether you’re a budding scientist, an eco-curious family, or just someone who wants to see what banana peels become when given time, Compost in a Jar is a fun way to stay curious and experiment together.

👉 Join us Sunday, September 7, 11 AM to 2 PM at ScienceWorks. Free with admission.

📅 Sunday, September 7
⏰ 11 AM to 2 PM
📍 ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum
💰 Admission is free for Members | $5 for Non-Members