Special Events
π MEET NASA ASTRONAUT
Col. E. Michael Fincke
Colonel E. Michael Fincke was selected as a NASA astronaut in 1996. A Pennsylvania native, he is a veteran of four spaceflights. He first flew during Expedition 9 (2004), followed by Expedition 18 (2009), and STS-134 (2011).
Most recently, he returned to space on August 1, 2025, as the pilot of NASAβs SpaceX Crew-11 mission, concluding with a safe splashdown on January 15, 2026 after more than five months aboard the International Space Station.
Over his career, Col. Fincke has logged 549 days in space and completed 9 spacewalks totaling over 48 hours. He has received three NASA Distinguished Service Medals.
He is also an Eagle Scout, demonstrating leadership, discipline, and service.
π 10:00 AM β ACM Building
- Limited seating (first-come, first-served)
- Line forms outside the building
- No food or drinks allowed
- Live viewing available outside
π» CYBER LEARNING PAVILION
An interactive space to explore artificial intelligence, digital skills, and future career opportunities. Sessions are beginner-friendly and designed for all ages.
π Great Lawn
πͺ BIG TIRE BOOTCAMP
HawaiΚ»iβs only adaptive fitness program featuring 10 functional stations including ropes, tire flips, and sandbags. Designed for all fitness levels.
π Great Lawn
π NOAA INFLATABLE WHALE
Walk through a 45-foot humpback whale and learn about marine biology through hands-on exhibits and activities.
π BISHOP MUSEUM PLANETARIUM
Explore stars and planets inside a mobile dome theater. Shows every 20 minutes. Free tickets required.
π UHWO Library | 9:00 AM β 3:00 PM
π― GATEBALL DEMONSTRATION
A fun, fast-paced team game incorporating STEM principles like force and motion.
π Great Lawn
π€ VEX IQ ROBOTICS SCRIMMAGE
A student robotics competition focused on teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.
- 9:45 AM β 12:00 PM: Qualification Matches
- 1:45 PM β 2:15 PM: Finals
- 2:30 PM: Awards
π C Building, Room C-208
βοΈ CIVIL AIR PATROL FLIGHT SIMULATORS
Try real flight simulators used in pilot training. Great for ages 12+.
π Room C-225
π² GAMES AREA
Enjoy chess, checkers, cards, and more hosted by AMVETS.
π Central Courtyard
β MANDO MERCS COSTUME CLUB
Meet Star Wars characters and take photos throughout the day.
β BIG KAHUNA CHESS TOURNAMENT
80-player tournament with 5 rounds of single elimination. All participants receive ribbons; finalists receive trophies.
π 2nd Floor Lanai β C Building
- Session A: 9:00 AM (Ages 8β17)
- Session B: 9:30 AM
- Session C: 10:00 AM
- Session D: 10:30 AM
- Session E: 11:00 AM (Ages 7β10)
Register here:
Big Kahuna Chess Tournament