The American Helicopter Museum and Education Center (AHMEC), 1220 American Blvd., West Chester, will host STEMFest - the new version of the museum's annual FamilyFest - on Saturday and Sunday, May 30 and 31, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. STEMFest will offer students and families hands-on learning experiences focused on aviation, engineering, and all things science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The event will feature interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, science shows, food trucks, and tabletop activities led by community and industry professionals. Participants will be able to watch a drone fly, build a model rocket, talk to a pilot, and interact with companies that are creating new technologies. Helicopter rides will be available on May 30 on a first-come, first-served basis for an additional fee.

Activities on May 30 will include a glider-building competition; "The Forces of Flight," presented by AHMEC at 11 a.m.; a "Meet a Pilot" panel event at noon; and "Discover Model Aviation," presented by the Chester County Radio Club at 1 p.m. Activities on May 31 will include a lunar lander egg drop competition; "Do You See What I See?" with the Academy of Natural Sciences at 11 a.m.; a question-and-answer time with aviation experts at noon; and "Self-Defense Science: Think Fast, Stay Safe," presented by Kirk Martial Arts and Krav Maga at 1 p.m.

STEMFest is free for AHMEC members. ACCESS passes and library passes will not be accepted for this event. Preregistration is requested, and there is a discount for purchasing tickets for both days of the event. To register, visit http://www.helicoptermuseum.org/event-details/stemfest-2026-2026-05-30-10-00. For more information, contact the museum's education programs manager, Paul Taylor, at ptaylor@helicoptermuseum.org or 610-436-9600, ext. 205.