From Oct. 23 to 25, the Science Days event took place at the Confertainment Center in Europa-Park, immersing visitors in the world of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology. More than 90 exhibitors presented a diverse program with exciting workshops, interactive hands-on activities, and impressive shows that thrilled over 11,300 visitors young and old. The topics covered tricky puzzles, virtual reality, and creative craft projects, making science and technology fascinating in an experiential way.
Anniversary and Commitment to STEM Topics
This year, the Science Days celebrated their 25th anniversary, while Europa-Park marked its 50th jubilee. These milestones underscored the commitment to STEM topics and offered guests extraordinary insights. Jürgen Mack, owner of Europa-Park, emphasized how exciting, versatile, and forward-looking science can be. He highlighted the importance of inspiring young people in STEM topics and conveying to them that curiosity, a spirit of discovery, and inventive joy form the basis for innovations and a successful future. Mack expressed gratitude for the long-standing collaboration and pride that Europa-Park can keep the enthusiasm for science and technology alive.
Highlight: First Appearance of the ESA
A special highlight was the stand of the ESA, the European Space Agency, which was represented at the Science Days for the first time. There, visitors gained exciting insights into space exploration, from rocket development to the construction of satellites that enable weather forecasts and navigation, to the study of distant planets and galaxies. Europa-Park is currently holding intensive discussions with the ESA about a possible collaboration.
Positive Response and New Partnerships
The exhibitors' commitment was reflected in the positive response from visitors. The Science Days provided a platform where science came alive through participation, amazement, and discovery. Mareike Köck, managing director of Science & Technology gGmbH, found it inspiring to observe the enthusiasm of children and young people. The organizers were extremely satisfied with this year's event and welcomed the new partner SEW-EURODRIVE, which supports the initiative to inspire young people in technical professions and innovation.
Symbolic Gift to the Mack Family
As a symbol of permanence, growth, and the future, Science & Technology gGmbH presented the Mack family with an eternal garden. This decorative glass arrangement contains plants in a closed cycle that thrive over a long period.
Visit by Minister Marion Gentges
Marion Gentges, minister of justice and migration in Baden-Württemberg, visited the Science Days and gained a personal impression. She described Europa-Park as a huge laboratory for children and young people that invited experimentation and wonder. The program included diverse hands-on activities, fascinating shows, as well as opportunities to learn about career fields and training options in the natural sciences. Gentges emphasized the importance of such events for the strong economic location and thanked Science & Technology gGmbH as well as Europa-Park for the exciting access to science and technology beyond school lessons.
