Rocket Fever festival returns Saturday

Ben Dickow, executive director of the Columbia Memorial Space Center. (Photo by Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images)

DOWNEY — The Columbia Memorial Space Center will host Rocket Fever, Los Angeles’ only urban rocket festival, this Saturday, Aug. 16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free, all-day event will feature the launch of more than 200 solid-fuel model rockets into the sky, along with hands-on STEM activities, exhibitions, and opportunities to meet real rocket scientists.

Children in attendance will receive a free model rocket while supplies last, and can build and launch it on site. Launches are scheduled for 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. Registration is required to participate in a launch, with a $5 fee and limited spots available. Pre-registration opens Monday, Aug. 4, at 8:30 a.m., and a small number of on-site registrations will be offered the day of the event.

President and Executive Director Benjamin Dickow said the festival comes at a time of renewed excitement for space exploration. “The day should be both fun and educational for all,” he said. Nader Moghaddam, chairman of the Columbia Memorial Space Center Foundation and CEO of Financial Partners Credit Union — the event’s sponsor — noted the festival’s long-standing role in inspiring young imaginations and supporting STEM learning.

In addition to rocket launches, attendees can enjoy water rockets, air-powered rockets, straw rockets, and free admission to the Space Center’s exhibits. More information is available at columbiaspacescience.org