Press Release: From Robots to Fire-Breathing Dragons: Maker Faire Long Island Showcases the Future of Creativity
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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 8/19/25 | CONTACT: Lisa Rodriguez Maker Faire Long Island Co-Producer Director Digital Media/Marketing Long Island Explorium lisa@longislandexplorium.org |
From Robots to Fire-Breathing Dragons: Maker Faire Long Island Showcases the Future of Creativity
On September 14, 2025, more than 100 makers will gather at Stony Brook University to inspire families, students, and innovators with hands-on exhibits, performances, and cutting-edge tech.
Stony Brook, NY — The Long Island Explorium is proud to announce the 8th annual Maker Faire Long Island, debuting at Stony Brook University on Sunday, September 14, 2025.
This year’s event is bigger than ever, coinciding with the Explorium’s 20th anniversary and promising a day filled with invention, creativity, and family fun.
Known globally as the “Greatest Show (and Tell) on Earth,” Maker Faire is a celebration of science, technology, engineering, art, and imagination. Thousands of visitors from across the tri-state area will gather to explore more than 100 exhibits, performances, and hands-on workshops that bring innovation to life.
The Force Is Strong With Us
This year, the force is truly strong at Maker Faire Long Island. Fan favorites return in full power, with the Saber Guild Endor Temple offering Lightsaber Padawan Training for kids and performance choreography workshops for adults, while the 501st Legion’s Empire City Garrison debuts their massive set pieces — including a life-size recreation of the iconic trash compactor scene.
Adding to the galaxy far, far away, the Long Island Droid Builders and the Long Island R2-D2 Builders Group will showcase their operational life-size R2-D2 droids, delighting fans young and old with some of the most beloved robots in cinematic history.
Featured Makers for 2025
This year’s Faire will showcase a dynamic mix of innovation, spectacle, and hands-on STEM fun:
- Adam Foster’s Magma-Pumpkin-Dragon — Three brand-new fire-breathing sculptures, including a volcanic flame-shooter, a plasma-carved pumpkin, and a dragon that roars with fire.
- The 501st Legion, Saber Guild, and R2-D2 Droid Builders — Beloved Star Wars fan groups bringing lightsaber battles, costumed characters, immersive sets, and fully operational droids.
- Learn to Solder Workshop with Elijah Horland of MythBusters Jr. and PCBWay — Visitors can make their own light-up badge while learning real electronics skills from a TV science star.
- Princesses with Powertools — Disney-style princesses who teach kids how to drill, build, and create, showing young makers that #BrilliantIsBeautiful.
- FIRST Long Island Robotics — Student teams from across the region showcasing competition-ready robots and inspiring the next generation of engineers.
Additional exhibits will include Stony Brook Solar Racing’s solar-powered boats, NY Sun Works’ hydroponic classrooms, and historic innovators like the Suffolk County Radio Club alongside global changemakers Tikkun Olam Makers and NYC Metro Makers Making Change.
A Festival of Innovation for All Ages
“Maker Faire Long Island has always been about sparking curiosity and celebrating creativity,” said Lisa Collet Rodriguez, Co-Producer. “This year, with our move to Stony Brook University and the Explorium’s 20th anniversary, the Faire is reaching new heights — from fire-breathing dragons to Star Wars set pieces, and from robotics to sustainability. It is a day where everyone, from kids to seasoned engineers, can be inspired.”
Event Details
- Event: Maker Faire Long Island 2025
- Date: Sunday, September 14, 2025
- Location: Stony Brook University, Student Activity Center
- Produced by: Long Island Explorium (celebrating 20 years of inspiring innovation)
- Tickets & Info: https://longisland.makerfaire.com
Advance ticket holders will receive a complimentary circuit board kit while supplies last and early access to our coveted workshops, including our new “Learn to Solder” workshop. Tickets can be purchased at Maker Faire Long Island Tickets. - Photos: Flicker Gallery: https://www.flickr.com/photos/liexplorium/
- Maker Faire LI 2025 Press Kit
Advance tickets are available now at https://www.eventbrite.es/e/maker-faire-long-island-2025-at-stony-brook-university-tickets-1202806299019
For more information, including a complete list of exhibitors and schedules, please visit the Maker Faire website at longisland.makerfaire.com. Follow us on social media for real-time updates on programming and schedules.
- Instagram: instagram.com/makerfaireli
- Twitter: twitter.com/MakerFaireLI
- Facebook: facebook.com/MakerFaireLI
- Mastodon: mastodon.online/@MakerFaireLI
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Maker Faire Long Island is produced by the Long Island Explorium, a children’s museum focused on science and engineering under license from Make Community LLC.
About the Long Island Explorium
The Long Island Explorium is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit and is chartered with the New York State Department of Education. Our vision is to be a leader in STEM discovery, learning, and innovation that will shape the intellect, social values, and principles of future generations. Our curriculum, exhibits, and educational approach are unique by design, developed to spark inventive solutions, build confidence by embracing the “fail forward” concept, and foster teamwork. We are recognized as Long Island’s Family Maker Space.
Maker Faires are produced under license from Make Community LLC.
Media Contacts:
Lisa Collet Rodriguez
Maker Faire Long Island, Co-Producer
lisa@longislandexplorium.org
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Press Release: Maker Faire Long Island Ignites Creative Sparks with Its 7th Spectacular Edition
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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 5/20/24 | CONTACT: Lisa Rodriguez Maker Faire Long Island Co-Producer Director Digital Media/Marketing Long Island Explorium lisa@longislandexplorium.org |
Maker Faire Long Island Ignites Creative Sparks with Its 7th Spectacular Edition
LONG ISLAND, NY – On June 8th, 2024, the Long Island Explorium will once again transform the grounds of Port Jefferson Village Center & Waterfront Park into a vibrant hub of innovation and wonder for the 7th annual Maker Faire Long Island. This festival of creativity and technology promises an unparalleled lineup of exhibits and performances, thrilling a diverse audience from the curious to the experienced makers.
Adam Foster’s Royal Trumpets return with a resounding boom to Maker Faire Long Island. Towering at fifteen feet, these kinetic pyrotechnic sound sculptures echo the grandeur of medieval heraldry with a twist of modern technology. Foster, a master of blending traditional metal crafts with high-tech flair, invites attendees to interact with these majestic creations, proving once more that imagination knows no bounds.
New this year, the Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club will bring the Star Wars universe to life. This international costume organization, recognized by Lucasfilm LTD., will showcase the rich culture and intricate armor of the Mandalorians. Members and visitors alike can dive into the craft of costume creation and experience the thrill of embodying a character from the beloved saga.
Long Island Drone Soccer, spearheaded by Jayson Klein, introduces a cutting-edge blend of technology and sport. This innovative game, which combines drone flying skills with the dynamics of soccer, offers an electrifying competitive experience for players and spectators. It’s more than just a game; it’s a gateway to the exhilarating world of drones and their potential.
Upsculpt continues to turn heads with its creative approach to environmental consciousness. Through artful upcycling, this group teaches participants to transform marine debris into beautiful sculptures, providing a hands-on approach to learning about sustainability and art.
Princesses with Powertools by Reinvented Inc. returns with their enchanting exhibit that combines princesses with the empowerment of engineering. Young attendees are invited to wield a hand drill under royal guidance to create their very own constellation projectors, illuminating the blend of beauty and brilliance in STEM.
Ray Rumore and the Balloon Bot Brawl make a thrilling return. High school student and seasoned maker, Ray Rumore, creator of the robot Volt, invites attendees to participate in the Balloon Bot Brawl—a vibrant robot showdown where precision and strategy lead to popping success. It’s a test of skill and a spectacle of fun, where participants maneuver their robots in a high-stakes balloon battle.
New Workshop: Learn to Solder – Led by Elijah Horland of Mythbusters Jr, this workshop allows participants to create their own MFLI light-up badge while mastering the basics of soldering. Sponsored by PCBWay, this hands-on experience is free with entry and offers a unique takeaway—a shining example of electronic craftsmanship. “Maker Faire Long Island is a beacon for the innovative spirit, drawing makers and enthusiasts from across the country to celebrate the power of creativity,” said Lisa Rodriguez, Co-Producer of Maker Faire Long Island and Digital Media & Marketing at the Long Island Explorium. “This year, we are thrilled to introduce new makers and even more captivating exhibits that highlight the latest in STEAM. We aim to inspire attendees to explore their creativity and perhaps spark a lifelong interest in these fields.”
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, June 8, 2024
- Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Location: Long Island Explorium, Port Jefferson Village Center, and Waterfront Park. Port Jefferson, NY
- Tickets: Early bird ticket holders will receive a complimentary circuit board kit while supplies last and early access to our coveted workshops, including our new “Learn to Solder” workshop. Tickets can be purchased at Maker Faire Long Island Tickets.
Advance tickets are available now at www.eventbrite.com/e/maker-faire-long-island-2024-tickets-777670602707.
For more information, including a complete list of exhibitors and schedules, please visit the Maker Faire website at longisland.makerfaire.com. Follow us on social media for real-time updates on programming and schedules.
- Instagram: instagram.com/makerfaireli
- Twitter: twitter.com/MakerFaireLI
- Facebook: facebook.com/MakerFaireLI
- Mastodon: mastodon.online/@MakerFaireLI
Media Contacts:
Lisa Rodriguez
Maker Faire Long Island, Co-Producer
lisa@longislandexplorium.org
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Maker Faire Long Island is produced by the Long Island Explorium, a children’s museum focused on science and engineering under license from Make Community LLC. Follow the development of Maker Faire Long Island on Twitter @MakerFaireLI, on Facebook @MakerFaireLI, and on Instagram @makerfaireli.
About the Long Island Explorium
The Long Island Explorium is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit and is chartered with the New York State Department of Education. Our vision is to be a leader in STEM discovery, learning, and innovation that will shape the intellect, social values, and principles of future generations. Our curriculum, exhibits, and educational approach are unique by design, developed to spark inventive solutions, build confidence by embracing the “fail forward” concept, and foster teamwork. We are recognized as Long Island’s Family Maker Space.
Maker Faires are produced under license from Make Community LLC.
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ANNOUNCING THE EMPIRE STATE MAKER FAIRE: AN ONLINE CELEBRATION OF INGENUITY FOR ALL
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 3/5/2020 | CONTACT: Lisa Rodriguez Maker Faire Long Island Co-Producer Director Digital Media/Marketing Long Island Explorium lisa@longislandexplorium.org |
EMPIRE STATE MAKER FAIRE:
AN ONLINE CELEBRATION OF INGENUITY FOR ALL
ANNOUNCEMENT: Our Call for Makers for our October 16th& 17th event is accepting Maker applications until Sept 20th. Apply now, https://makerfaire.com/empire-maker-faire-2020/
Discover what makers can do at the Empire State Maker Faire, an online event on October 16 and 17, 2020. This statewide showcase, organized by local producers throughout New York State, will share the creative work and technical know-how of all kinds of makers who share a passion for making. The event features demonstrations, performances and how-to workshops – everything from robotics to woodworking to flaming art. Empire State Maker Faire is free and open to the public.
On Friday October 16th, Empire State Maker Faire offers a day for students to explore making in science, art and technology with hands-on activities that can be done at school or at home. Live sessions and a variety of public programs will happen on Saturday. An online showcase of makers and projects will be exhibited on MakeFaire.com.
Would you like to share what you make at The Empire State Maker Faire? The Call for Makers for makers, an open call for entries, will be available online in mid-August. See Makerfaire.com for more details.
Save the date and follow us on social media for updates. Twitter @MakerFaireLI, on Facebook @MakerFaireLI and on Instagram @makerfaireli and https://longisland.makerfaire.com/.
Empire State Maker Faire is presented by the producers of Maker Faires in Rochester, Long Island, Buffalo, Fredonia, Twin Tiers, Syracuse, and World Maker Faire, in conjunction with Make: Community (https://make.co/ )
Media Contacts:
Lisa Rodriguez
Maker Faire Long Island Co-Producer
Empire State Maker Faire
lisa@longislandexplorium.org
Gillian Mutti
Maker Faire/Make Community
Gillian@make.co
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Maker Faire Long Island is produced by the Long Island Explorium, a children’s museum focused on science and engineering under license from Make Community LLC.
About the Long Island Explorium
The Long Island Explorium is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit and is chartered with the New York State Department of Education. Our vision is to be a leader in STEM discovery, learning and innovation that will shape the intellect, social values and principles of future generations. Our curriculum, exhibits and educational approach are unique by design, developed to spark inventive solutions, build confidence by embracing the “fail forward” concept and foster teamwork. We are recognized as Long Island’s Family Maker Space.
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Press Release: Maker Faire Long Island 3/5/2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 3/5/2020
CONTACT: Angeline Judex, MPA, Executive Director, Long Island Explorium, (631) 431-1192. ajudex@longislandexplorium.org
Maker Faire Long Island returns for the fifth year!
Call for Makers registration is open now!
Feb 24, 2020, Port Jefferson, NY: Maker Faire is coming back to Long Island for the fifth year! Maker Faire Long Island is scheduled for June 6, 2020 and once again will be held in the picturesque Village of Port Jefferson. Maker Faire combines the traditional science fair with innovation, art, craft, and engineering building on the Maker movement to create something entirely new. Formerly called the Eastern Long Island Mini Maker Faire, the event is known as the “Greatest Show & Tell on Earth”.
“This showcase of STEAM innovation and creativity is one of its kind on Long Island. Bridging the gap between text book science and real world applications is key to inspiring the next generation into STEM careers”, explains Angeline Judex, MPA, Executive Director, Long Island Explorium.
The Call for Makers, Performers, and Crafters is open now through May 1st. Groups or individuals interested in exhibiting or offering a hands-on experience should complete the online application at https://longisland.makerfaire.com/call-for-makers/. Apply soon for early placement! Event organizers will reply to applications with further instructions for participation.
As part of the internationally acclaimed Maker Faire program that offers hands-on making events in cities and towns around the world, Maker Faire Long Island celebrates creativity and innovation in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Last year over 100 makers and 2000 participants of all ages experienced innovative robotics, kinetic and interactive art, fine sculptures, explored the ocean through virtual reality, and more through hands-on, minds-on exhibits and performances at the Long Island Explorium and the neighboring Port Jefferson Village Center and Harborfront Park.
The Faire will be open Saturday, June 6 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Early bird tickets are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/maker-faire-long-island-2020-tickets-86747115959. Early bird rates end on May 1, 2020.
Maker Faire Long Island is produced by the Long Island Explorium, a children’s museum focused on science and engineering under license from Make Community LLC. Follow the development of Maker Faire Long Island on Twitter @MakerFaireLI, on Facebook @MakerFaireLI and on Instagram @makerfaireli.
About the Long Island Explorium
The Long Island Explorium is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit and is chartered with the New York State Department of Education. Our vision is to be a leader in STEM discovery, learning and innovation that will shape the intellect, social values and principles of future generations Our curriculum, exhibits and educational approach are unique by design, developed to spark inventive solutions, build confidence by embracing the “fail forward” concept and foster teamwork. We are recognized as Long Island’s Family Maker Space.
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