Science in a Bag

Science in a Bag

What is Science in a Bag?

First introduced in 2021, the Science in a Bag program provides free take-home kits filled with hands-on activities, which are available for pick-up at libraries throughout Wisconsin. Each bag is hand-packed by volunteers and contains 4-5 different activities, including access to digital resources. In 2024, partners including Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom, the Ice Age Trail Alliance, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, Alliant Energy, and Code to Connect contributed kits to the bags. With their help, 2,000 kits were distributed across the state using the South Central Library Distribution Service!

How to get a FREE Science in a Bag STEM kit?

Stop by participating library locations (search ‘Science in a Bag’ on our event page or search by your location) Oct. 16-26, 2025 during regular library hours to get a free Science in a Bag STEM Kit courtesy of the Wisconsin Science Festival. Activities are appropriate for ages K-12 and feature science and research happening in the state of Wisconsin.

In addition, visit the SCIENCE IN A BAG DIGITAL RESOURCES DASHBOARD for further instructions and bonus activities related to the Science in a Bag kits! Before beginning Science in a Bag activities, please get permission from a responsible adult.

Don’t forget to let us know what you thought of your science fun by completing our short feedback form!

For more science fun check out events happening in your area during the Wisconsin Science Festival or join our email list to be notified about future events.

A huge thank you to our 2024 contributing partners:

The 2025 Wisconsin Science Festival Science in a Bag library application has not yet opened. Please email info@wiscifest.org if you would like to be notified when the application window opens.

Banner image by Ueda Photography.