MessFest returns to science center

Staff report

PITTSBURGH

MessFest, the New Year’s Day tradition at Carnegie Science Center, will return with its slimiest and gooiest event to date.

Now in its 12th year, MessFest features hands-on activities that are available only on this day. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors of all ages are invited to experiment and enjoy as the center turns its four floors of exhibits into a messy playground. It’s fun for the whole family and parents don’t have to clean up afterward.

Visitors should dress accordingly. Oobleck, the gooey substance that turns solid and liquid, will return.

The Egg Zipline activity invites visitors to engineer a package for raw eggs that will protect their “egg-stronauts” as they are sent hurtling toward the stage. Kids can become messy artists with finger painting and compete in a pudding “pi”-eating contest.

Other activities include making prints with bubbles, using polymers to make snow, and seeing some explosive reactions.

Along with the activity tables, visitors can experience high-energy, grossly entertaining programs in the center’s BodyStage.

MessFest activities are included with general admission to the Science Center.

Go to CarnegieScienceCenter.org or call 412-237-3400 for information and ticket prices.