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The Discovery kicked off a brand-new tradition on Saturday, September 12, as more than 1,200 visitors flooded the museum for the inaugural Biggest Little Mess Fest — proving that Reno families are more than ready to get their hands (and everything else) dirty for science.
The museum’s galleries, labs, and parking lot were transformed into a playground of squishing, splashing, and digging, all built around a simple idea: people learn better when they’re allowed to make a mess. Behind every ooey, gooey station was real STEM content, giving attendees of every age permission to explore science through their senses.
The inaugural event was presented with support from Western Environment Testing. The event also welcomed partner organizations from throughout the community including SPCA of Northern Nevada, PBS Reno, the Washoe County Coroner’s Office, Nevada Museum of Art, UNR’s Innevation Center, Granite Construction, Plenium Builders, Q&D Construction, and more.
With turnout exceeding expectations, Mess Fest instantly established itself as one of the most popular single-day events in The Discovery’s history — a strong signal that “sanctioned mess” has real staying power to get people curious about science. Given the response, The Discovery’s staff is already looking to make Biggest Little Mess Fest an annual tradition, with messier activities and even more community partnerships expected in 2027.