Chattanooga Mini Maker FaireThe region’s first Mini Maker Faire, set for Saturday, Oct. 11, at First Tennessee Pavilion, 1829 Reggie White Blvd., will give Chattanoogans a chance to show off their creative spirit.
The event celebrates invention, creativity and resourcefulness and is open to anyone with an idea. It will feature robot battles, a 3-D printing showcase, quad copter and unmanned aerial vehicle displays and a MacGyver competition. Attendees also will be able to attend soldering workshops, art displays, hobby presentations and sewing workshops.
“Maker Faires are all about inspiring people stop and ask themselves, ‘Wait, could I make this?’ rather than simply buying something,” says director Graham Bredemeyer. “That mentality is helping drive the democratization of manufacturing, and it’s also very much a part of Chattanooga’s legacy. We’re looking forward to expanding our community of makers through this event.”
The original Maker Faire event was held in San Mateo, Calif., in 2005 as a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness. Such events draw tech enthusiasts, crafters, tinkerers, hobbyists, artists and performers of all ages and backgrounds.
“Being part of a Maker Faire feels kind of like going home for tech enthusiasts and maker types,” says Tim Youngblood, co-operator of Chatt*Lab, a sponsor with The Company Lab and the Chattanooga Public Library. “It’s an opportunity to connect with people who share your same interests, as well as to build community around technology, crafting and ‘making’ in general. For many, it’s also a chance to put your work on display for the first time and to learn from some of the brightest makers in the region.”
Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for teens ages 13-17 and free for younger children. Students who are over 17 may present their school IDs to enter at half price. Businesses and organizations may purchase bulk tickets at a discount upon request.
To learn more, visit www.makerfairechattanooga.com.