Frequently asked questions
When is it?
The annual event takes place on a Sunday afternoon, between the end of September and beginning of October - this year on Sunday October 4, between 12-4pm.
Where is it and how do I get there?
Cambridge Science Carnival takes place at the Kendall/MIT Open Space:
Kendall/MIT Open Space
292 Main St, Cambridge, MA 02142
The Open Space is conveniently located next to the Kendall/MIT T stop and MIT’s Building E38 (292 Main Street) and accessible via public transportation.
Find out more about how to get here
Is there parking nearby?
Directly beneath the Open Space you’ll find the Hayward St Parking Lot, which can be accessed from Main & Hayward. There is also an entrance on Amherst St but this is likely to be closed or less accessible during Carnival. There is a $15 charge for all-day parking on Carnival Sunday. The lot offers elevator access directly to the Open Space.
There is limited on street parking within close walking distance of the Open Space, and these spaces are likely to be busy during Carnival.
Find out more about how to get here
Is it really free entry?
Yes! There is no entry fee, and every activity is free and open to all! The MIT Museum is also free on this day, from 10am-6pm (last entry 5:30pm).
Who is it for?
Everyone is welcome, but the majority of activities are aimed at children and families. We usually see between 15-20,000 visitors attend the Cambridge Science Carnival in just 4 hours, and are always delighted by how far some people travel to get involved.
Who organizes the Cambridge Science Carnival?
Carnival was founded by the MIT Museum in 2007, and has been produced by the Museum ever since. You can find out more about the MIT Museum here - and if you’re visiting the Kendall/MIT Open Space for Carnival, why not stop by and say hi? The Museum is free to Cambridge residents year-round, and free to all during Carnival.
What is MIT Future Fest?
MIT Future Fest is a five-day annual festival that opens the Institute’s doors to the world. Across open laboratories, public talks and events, immersive exhibitions and evening performances, the festival offers an unprecedented invitation to the research, ideas, and people sharing the next era of science, technology, and human understanding. Cambridge Science Carnival is the celebratory, closing event of this new festival, produced by the MIT Museum.
Check out MIT Future Fest and join the MIT Museum mailing list and be the first to know about Festival news and announcements.
