Calendar of Events

Scientists estimate that there are more than 1,000 chemicals in a typical cup of our beloved java. From the plant, to the roast, to the grind, you’ll explore the many amazing factors that contribute to our affinity, and sometimes reliance, on this globally alluring elixir. About Social Science Social Science is adults-only, brain building fun featuring intriguing science demos, hands-on labs, a live DJ, and beer, wine, and sweet and savory bites from Whole Foods Market Reno.

From food preservation and preparation, to the production of wine and beer, fermentation has long been an organic means of converting sugar into the flavors and textures we love. At Social Science, you’ll explore the microbiology involved in the fermentation process and its variety of modern day uses. The Perfect Loaf Join The Discovery’s educators to learn about the role of natural yeasts and fermentation in sourdough. You’ll even create your own sourdough starter! Micro What? Ruth Gault, University of…

Don’t just drink beer, understand it! Explore the science behind your favorite brews when you examine varieties of hops, learn how beer is made, sample tasty beers from local craft breweries, and challenge your skills and your friends in fun beer games, too! Presented as part of Reno Craft Beer Week 2017. Try This at Home Get started brewing beer at home with pointers from expert home brewers. Beer in the Raw Explore the raw ingredients used to make beer with…

Have you ever dated a dinosaur? Here’s your chance to spend quality time with Sue and find out all there is to know about her amazing 67-million-year history—what she ate, who she fought, where she lived, and the ferocious details of the custody battle that followed her discovery in South Dakota. Labs, lectures and programming at this Social Science will include: Fossils and Dig Pits Scavenge dig pits for dino puzzle pieces and examine a variety of real fossils. DIY…

Let’s talk about sex and the science behind it. From the potent aroma of pheromones, to the chemistry of personal lubricants, science gets hot and heavy when you explore the ins and outs of attraction, sex, and love. Labs, lectures and programming at this Social Science will include: Ooh That Smell Take a smell test and cast your vote for the pheromone-enticing smell you like the best. Lube Luge Understand the chemistry that makes one personal lubricant different from another…

Get ready to make, share, craft and be inspired! At this Social Science you’ll explore a variety of tools and techniques used by Makers to foster creativity, encourage hands-on, collaborative innovation and build community. Labs, lectures and programming at this Social Science will include: Bending Light Explore the art and science of neon sign creation with the experts from Color of Neon. Make Juniper Into Gin Ever wondered how to turn juniper berries into gin for that refreshing gin and…

Come one, come all! At this Social Science, you’ll marvel at oddities and delicacies of the strangest and never-before-seen variety. Dine at the bug buffet, probe a human brain, have your fortune told, sample absinthe, endure a VR scare, and much more! Labs, lectures and programming at this Social Science will include:* Frankenstuff Choose from a variety of plush friends to cut, tear and sew into your own lovable plush Frankenstein. Bug Buffet Do you dare to taste a delicacy…

Discover your inner sleuth when you explore the science that solves crimes. Apply your own wound, pose for a mugshot, create blood spatter artwork, gather evidence from crime scenes, learn the intricate art of an autopsy from the staff at the Washoe County Medical Examiner’s office, and more! Labs, lectures and programming at this Social Science will include: We’ve Got a Bleeder! Create your own wound using a variety of makeup and special effects including fake blood and rotting skin.…

Calling all nerds, preps, jocks and valley girls to an exploration of the science and culture of the ‘80s. Play classic arcade games, make your own ectoplasm, master the Rubik’s Cube, design a sequined glove, and much more, dude! Labs, lectures and programming at this Social Science will include: Go for High Score! Become an ’80s hero when you try your hand at classic arcade games from Press Start Arcade. You got next! Become the King (or Queen) of Pop…

From caffeine and alcohol, to marijuana and prescribed meds, drugs have varied and often misunderstood effects on the body and brain. At this Social Science, you’ll explore the science of drugs and their effects – positive and negative – on humans and our community. Labs, lectures and programming for this Social Science will include: Drug IQ Put your drug knowledge to the test when you and a team of four others join in on a survey-based drug Q&A session. Winning…

Whether an ear-shattering guitar solo or a tear-jerking ballad is your jam, this Social Science is your opportunity to explore the science of sound. Invent your own musical instrument, play a one-of-a-kind light-up drum kit, make Oobleck dance to the beat, enjoy live musical performances, and so much more! Labs, lectures and programming for this Social Science will include: The Big Music Quiz Join a team and put your collective music knowledge to the test in a battle of audiophiles.…

Use the force, blast into hyperspace, phone home and get beamed up during an evening of intergalactic exploration inspired by a galaxy far, far away. Get ready to get hands-on with the science that makes the fiction fantastic. Sci-fi soundtrack provided by StaxOfWax of the Thermites. Labs, lectures and programming for this Social Science will include: Saber Jousting Use the force of science to knock your opponent off their perch in this classic sci-fi duel. Felt Heroes and Heroines Get…

Face your fears and tackle your phobias head-on during an evening of some of the scariest science. Whether your fear is clowns, bugs, electric shock, needles, or just the fear of fear itself, prepare to explore the science of scary. Labs, lectures and experiences at this Social Science will include: Why are you scared? Join Cindy Lancaster Ph.D., University of Nevada, Reno assistant professor of clinical psychology, for an eye-opening presentation that will teach you three strategies to help you conquer…

Per current CDC guidance and Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak’s mandate, face coverings MUST BE WORN by all attendees, regardless of vaccination status, except when actively eating or drinking. Art doesn’t just happen by accident! Science always plays a role. From the centrifugal force of a potter’s wheel, to the hand-eye coordination needed to sketch a nude model, explore the science in art and create your very own masterpieces—no artistic skills required! Due to the popularity of this event, we strongly…

Per current CDC guidance and Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak’s mandate, face coverings MUST BE WORN by all attendees, regardless of vaccination status, except when actively eating or drinking. Wands at the ready! Now boarding at Platform 9 3/4 for your opportunity to explore the science of witchcraft and wizardry. Get sorted, discover your Patronus, craft potions, create your very own wand, and so much more. Fear not, Muggles are allowed to attend, too. Labs, lectures and experiences at this Social…