It's not every day kids are encouraged to ditch their screens in exchange for a few hours of unbridled creativity and exploration.  Maker Faire, an annual festival which encourages families to MAKE, create, learn, invent, CRAFT, recycle, think, play and be inspired by celebrating arts, crafts, engineering, food, music, science and technology. Join fellow inventors and (aspiring ones) September 13-14, 2014 under the Lincoln Pavilion at Headwaters Park East for this 4th annual event that is gaining more and more momentum each year. Join local artist Eran Park as he blows glass at Maker Faire 2014. This event is made possible by TekVenture, a 501(c)(3) public art and technology laboratory seeking a home near downtown. Their goal is to create a public intersect on between imagination, technology, art & community - a space where arts, tinkerers, makers, engineers, inventors, prototypers, craftspeople, and others gather to use tools, share ideas and make things. These “makers” represent a movement happening all across the United States. In the last few years, similar informal facilities designed to bring groups of people together to use traditional and high-tech tools to solve engineering problems and to create art, technology, and other projects have blossomed worldwide. While searching for a permanent home, the organizers created this event to serve as a fundraiser and to celebrate and connect these creative people and the things they make. After all, knowledge is best shared. Why not harness the passion from makers around the world through a local event? That philosophy is what drives the organizers every year. Speaking of making, you can expect to encounter some impressive displays of skill, talent and ingenuity. For example, on this year's schedule of events are a BMX and rocket launch demonstration. A variety of hands-on activities, like glassblowing, rocket making, and aircraft assembly are planned. This weekend provides a real opportunity to get up close and personal with science.  It's never too early to introduce your kids to STEM. Get your tickets in advance and save.  Tickets are available via Eventbrite or buy them at the door with cash or credit card (MasterCard, VISA, Discover.)