The third annual STEMfest will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 20 at the Convocation Center, according to a NIU STEM Outreach press release.

The event provides a hands-on experience for children of all ages. Demonstrations and exhibits will focus on science, technology, engineering and math, according to NIU STEM Outreach. STEMFest is free to the public and free parking is provided by University Relations.

According to NIU STEM Outreach, a new exhibit this year will feature activities like PBS Kids Learning Lab. This exhibit will feature activities related to popular television shows like Dinosaur Train and Sid the Science Kid.

Nearly 500 NIU students, faculty and staff will be on hand at STEMfest. Donations supporting NIU STEM Outreach’s annual community activities will be accepted.

According to NIU STEM Outreach, STEM Outreach Coordinator Pati Sievert said STEM-related careers have outgrown non-STEM jobs 3-1 and the trend is expected to continue. Children getting interested in STEM is important if America is to remain economically competitive, she said.