Special Events
National Conference in Philadelphia • Mar. 26-29, 2025
Enrich your participation and enhance your network
Come for the knowledge, stay for the connections, and leave with a network that will support your career.
Free Events

Opening Reception
Wednesday, March 26 • 4:00-5:00 PM
Join us for an opening reception to mark the start of NSTA Philly25! We’ll keep it casual—enjoy beverages and small bites while networking with old and new friends. The event is complimentary and open to all registered conference attendees.

STEM Showcase
Wednesday, March 26 • 1:00-3:30pm
Exhibit Hall D of the Pennsylvania Convention Center
Connect and Collaborate at Philly25
Don’t miss this exciting event showcasing STEM and science-based programs, organizations, mobile labs, and local Philly attractions! Explore a variety of displays, connect with showcase presenters, enjoy tasty bites from the food cart, and take advantage of ample networking opportunities—all before the opening reception and keynote at 4 p.m. It’s the perfect way to kick off Philly25!

Movie Night: OBSERVER - Presented by the Science Communication Lab
Thursday, March 27 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Exhibit Hall E
A free drink ticket will be given to all pre-registered guests. Light hors d'oeuvres and popcorn will be provided for all attendees.
The Science Communication Lab is proud to present a free sneak peek screening of their upcoming feature film, OBSERVER, for the NSTA community. The Science Communication Lab engages students and the public through award-winning films that captivate and inspire a deeper connection to science. Visit our Movie Theater Booth (#681) to find out more about our free content for educators!
About the film: In OBSERVER, filmmaker Ian Cheney embarks on an experiment in which he brings a series of keen-eyed observers - scientists, artists, a hunter - to a range of locations around the world, often without telling them where they are going, and asks them simply to describe what they see. What unfolds is a deep exploration and celebration of the power of observation: what happens when you find new ways to sense and perceive the world around you? With customary whimsy and a small painted red square that Cheney brings on every journey, the film is an invitation to viewers to find beauty and meaning in even the most quotidian of locales. Watch Trailer

Closing Reception
Saturday, March 29 • 2:15-3:15 PM
Join us for the NSTA Philly25 closing reception, celebrating the end of four days of unparalleled inspiration, learning, and connection.
Sip on refreshing beverages, savor delectable snacks, and mingle with fellow attendees as you relish the final moments of this incredible conference.
Drink tickets will be distributed at the final concurrent session on March 29, beginning at 1:00 PM. Secure a ticket at the final learning session to ensure your golden opportunity to not only enjoy a refreshing beverage but also enter the running for some truly amazing prizes. Raise a glass to a successful event and your potential to win as we celebrate the collective accomplishments of NSTA Philly25.
Make sure to attend for your chance to win one of these incredible prizes - View Prizes
You must be present to win, so don't miss out on this electrifying conclusion. Cheers to an unforgettable NSTA Philly25!
Morning Refresh

Morning Coffee Chats
Friday and Saturday, March 28-29 • 6:40-7:40 AM
Bring your favorite sunrise beverage and join us on Friday and Saturday morning for an informal get-together with your peers. Share ideas and experiences, expand your network, and connect with colleagues and friends from around the country. All are welcome to attend.

Sunrise Yoga
Thursday and Friday, March 27-28 • 6:40-7:40 AM
Calling all yoga enthusiasts. Regardless of whether you’re a newbie or veteran, join yoga instructor Azra Chughtai for a gentle warm-up; traditional vinyāsa-style yoga (balance poses, core, strength building); deep stretching for hips and hamstrings; and, of course, meditation for relaxation and de-stressing. Beginner friendly!