TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – SARSEF is celebrating over 70 years of inspiring young scientists with the 2026 Regional Science and Engineering Fair. This annual event has been a cornerstone of STEM education in Southern Arizona, bringing together thousands of student researchers to compete for awards, prizes, scholarships, and the chance to advance to the international stage.
The 2026 fair will take place from March 2-7, with a hybrid model that includes both in-person and virtual components. Students from PreK through high school will showcase their projects, competing in categories ranging from Animal Science to Sustainability and Renewable Energy. Top projects will be selected to represent the region at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Phoenix in May.
Chief Development Officer Chelsea Bowdren emphasized the importance of community support for the fair. “We are grateful to partner with so many organizations, advocates, community members and more that are championing students to be critical thinkers and problem solvers,” Bowdren said.
The fair will feature a full schedule of events including:
- March 3 – High School In-Person Day – University of Arizona Student Union Grand Ballroom
- March 4 – Elementary/Middle School Virtual Interviews from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Winners will be announced online at 12 p.m.
The fair will culminate in an awards ceremony and Community STEM Expo at Reid Park on March 7. The day’s schedule includes:
- Elementary (Grades PreK-5) Awards Ceremony at 10 a.m.
- STEM Exhibitor Booths and Food Trucks from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Middle and High School (Grades 6-12) Awards Ceremony from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
SARSEF, founded in 1955, continues to engage Arizona students in STEM through various programs and partnerships, focusing on underrepresented populations. For more information on SARSEF and how to get involved, visit sarsef.org.
More information about the 2026 Regional Science and Engineering Fair can be found online.