The Greatest Show (and Tell) on Earth returns for its sixth year on February 15, 2025, at Elkhorn Area High School. MakerFest, formerly known as the Elkhorn Mini MakerFaire, is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers and artists to scientists and crafters, MakerFest is a venue for “makers” of all kinds to show off their hobbies, experiences, and projects.
The brainchild of EAMS Science Teacher and recent recipient of the PLTW Outstanding Teaching Award, Eryca Card, and EAHS Librarian Rebecca Blom, MakerFest was inspired by Card’s visit to her first MakerFaire in Milwaukee. “Seeing the creativity and connections made at the event sparked a vision of possibilities,” Card said. Around this time, Blom was hired as the Library Media Specialist at EAHS and was also tasked with creating a “maker space” for students. Blom and Card connected, and MakerFest was born! Card says they “dreamed of an event where students could not only showcase their learning and talents but also connect with community members and participants from across the state and nation who want to share their passions.”
MakerFest outgrew its middle school venue its very first year and moved to the high school in year two and beyond. “The event was a hit immediately and a wonderful way for families to come out in the midst of the cold Wisconsin winter to do something fun, engaging, educational, and free!” says Blom. MakerFest draws a crowd of over 1,000 each year, with an average 100 makers and vendors sharing their skills. Makers and vendors are required to demonstrate their “making” process.
Staff and students are getting in on the fun, too. Gina Rand has been the high school student project coordinator for MakerFest since its inception. She works with students to create one-of-a-kind projects in the EAHS Maker Space (aka The Cube) and leads projects and demonstrations for MakerFest guests each year. Mariann Hunter has served as volunteer coordinator since the very first Fest, and as a testament to how much fun this event is, current and former students sign up each year to volunteer. “The Fest would not run the way it does without all of these people,” Blom says.
Makerfest has grown into a vibrant, community-focused celebration,” says Card. “Sponsors, makers, food vendors, and participants come together to inspire students, showcase talents, and create lasting connections.” Admission to MakerFest is free through February 8 if you reserve your ticket online and bring in a donation for the Lakeland Animal Shelter. Visit elkhornschools.org/page/makerfest to learn more about how to get involved as a maker, a sponsor, or a volunteer.