Step into the spirit of the Winter Olympics with a hands-on STEM celebration for all ages! Design your own athletic gear, test how high you can jump, and race bobsleds while exploring the science behind speed and materials. From engineering footwear to experimenting with friction and force, this action-packed program invites visitors to think like athletes, designers, and engineers
DiscOlympics
The Science of Snowboards
Location: Atrium
A snowboard allows a rider to glide over snow by spreading their weight across a wide surface, helping them float instead of sinking. The smooth base reduces friction so the board can slide, while sharp metal edges grip the snow to help riders turn and stop. By shifting their weight, bending their knees, and tilting the board on its edges, riders control speed, direction, and balance. Different board shapes, stiffness, and profiles affect how a snowboard performs on groomed runs, powder, or terrain parks.
Friction Bobsleigh
Location: Atrium
Visitors will test how friction affects motion by sending a mini bobsleigh down a track with different surfaces. Experiment with smooth and rough materials to see how they change speed and distance, and discover how scientists and engineers use friction to control movement in real-world sports and transportation.
Design your own Snowboard
Location: Art Alcove
Be a snowboard artist! Create your own snowboard by choosing fun colors, patterns, and shapes. Decorate your board to show your personality and imagination, just like real snowboard designers who turn boards into moving works of art.
Stuffed hearts
Location: The Shop
Get prepared for Valentine’s Day the Discovery way. Visitors can create their own stuffed hearts using colorful fabrics, soft poly-fil, and sewing supplies. This activity is a delightful and fun way to learn basic sewing skills and take home a handmade, heart-shaped treasure.
Shaping Shoes
Location: Spark!lab Smithsonian
Visitors will design and create their very own shoes for competition. Using available materials, visitors will create shoes for an athletic event.
*Some activities include access to tools and materials that can be dangerous if used improperly. Caregivers are encouraged to help young participants use the tools and materials safely.