Marine Science Day
VIMS' annual open house is a fun-filled event for the whole family. Join us in Gloucester Point for exhibits, children's activities, seining on the York River, lab tours, a seafood cooking demonstration, mini-lectures, and much more. All activities are free, as is parking. The event proceeds rain or shine.
Marine Science Day 2014 will take place on Saturday, May 17th, with the theme of bioluminescence. Register online.
Costume Contest
Create a marine-themed costume to participate in our Marine Science Day contest. Everyone, every age, can participate by creating original costumes of marine plants or animals. Individuals and groups are welcome. Ribbons are awarded for most original plant or animal; most creative use of materials; best group costume; and best representation of a plant or animal. The overall winner will earn a $50 gift certificate to VIMS' gift shop.
View wonderful creatures created and worn by individuals and groups from all around Tidewater during past years.
For Teachers
Encourage your students to attend VIMS' Marine Science Day by offering extra credit! In the past, teachers have offered extra credit to students who attend and obtain stamps at various locations throughout the event (of course, that’s up to you). To offer this incentive to your students, simply print this .pdf on 8.5 x 11 paper and have students fold it to create the passport. The students can bring the passport to VIMS during the event’s hours of 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and should arrive before 2 p.m. to allow time to locate each booth. Staff at the booths listed on the passport will stamp the passport with marine-themed stamps.
MSD Offerings
Wacky Science Photo Booth
Visit the VIMS Flickr page to see your image from the 2014 Wacky Science Photo Booth. Click the image to enlarge, then right click for download options. Don't see your image? [[susan,Contact us via e-mail]].
VIMS in the Bay and Around the World
Ocean research takes VIMS scientists from Poquoson to the Poles. Learn about efforts by VIMS researchers in Chesapeake Bay to manage blue crabs, restore oysters, survey fish populations, unravel biodiversity, monitor water quality, and find and remove "ghost" crab pots. Also learn about our international work in Antarctica and the deep sea. These exhibits are located in Watermen's Hall and Chesapeake Bay Hall and are open continuously from 10 am - 3 pm.
Open Labs
Tour working laboratories to learn about the latest tools and techniques of marine research. Scientists lead the tours and will explain their current research.
Activities & Tours
Learn and have fun with bioluminescence-based crafts and other activities in our Children's Pavilion. Tour our Teaching Marsh, Shellfish Hatchery, and Riparian Forest. Collect, observe, and better understand estuarine organisms from the York River. Make sure to stop by our Wacky Science Photo Booth!
By the Clock
In addition to our day-long activities, we offer a series of events that begin at specific times. These events include three 10-minute mini-lectures, seafood cooking demonstration, and more. See your program for details.
Food and Gifts
Marine Science Day T-shirts and other clothing and memorabilia will be for sale in the VIMS Gift Shop. T-shirts will also be available in the Welcome Booth. Hot sandwiches, snacks, and drinks will be available near the Children's Pavilion.