by InTrieste
This weekend, the historic Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia in Trieste will transform into a vibrant hub of innovation and creativity, as it plays host to the 11th edition of Maker Faire Trieste. Held on Saturday, August 31st, and Sunday, September 1st, the event promises to immerse attendees in a dynamic fusion of science, technology, and artistry.
This year’s Maker Faire, co-organized by the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) and the Municipality of Trieste, is expected to attract more than 400 “makers” from across Italy, as well as Slovenia, Croatia, and Germany. Participants will gather to showcase their cutting-edge inventions, unique creations, and groundbreaking projects in fields ranging from robotics to 3D printing. It’s a testament to the international reach and creative spirit that Maker Faires around the world are known for.
“This event represents a significant opportunity to connect the people of Trieste and the entire Friuli Venezia Giulia region to the forefront of science and technology,” said Professor Atish Dabholkar, director of ICTP, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. “The Maker Faire allows everyone to peer into the future, offering a glimpse at how today’s research and technology will benefit all of humanity.”
Maker Faires, often described as “The Greatest Show and Tell on Earth,” are global celebrations of the maker movement—a growing culture of creativity and hands-on innovation. The Trieste edition will feature 120 unique projects, ranging from intricate robotics to interactive science exhibits, all with the goal of sparking curiosity and inspiring attendees to imagine new possibilities.
Mayor Roberto Dipiazza of Trieste praised the event for fostering creativity in a city renowned for its scientific heritage. “The partnership between the city and ICTP has allowed us to bring science closer to our citizens in an environment full of joy and creativity,” said Dipiazza. “It’s a key moment for our city.”
The city of Trieste has long been a hub of scientific research, and the Maker Faire further cements this reputation. The event will also serve as a launchpad for a month-long series of science-related activities that will turn the entire city into a museum of innovation. These activities, organized in conjunction with local institutions such as Immaginario Scientifico, will culminate in a grand finale at the end of September.
Central to this year’s Maker Faire will be an emphasis on educating the public about digital literacy. In addition to the spectacle of high-tech gadgets, the Municipality of Trieste will host sessions aimed at combating misinformation and improving online safety. These workshops are part of the municipality’s #DigitaleFacile initiative, which seeks to bridge the digital divide by helping citizens, particularly those less familiar with technology, navigate the online world.
Beyond the science, the event’s international flavor is set to take center stage. Makers from across Europe will converge to share their expertise and enthusiasm, contributing to what organizer Carlo Fonda calls “an international gathering of imagination and creativity.” The weekend will include live demonstrations, maker interviews, and even a Steampunk parade, ensuring a diverse range of activities for all ages.
“We are delighted to welcome more than 400 makers to our city,” said Fonda. “This international assembly of thinkers, creators, and inventors will begin Saturday afternoon, allowing attendees from outside the region time to travel and take part in the event.”
One of the key highlights will be the Science Picnic, an interactive space where researchers will guide the public through experiments and displays, bringing scientific inquiry to life. Among the many exhibits will be a “Chem Show,” featuring dramatic chemical reactions designed to captivate audiences, and a showcase of 3D printing innovations that could soon revolutionize industries.
The event will also feature collaborations with prominent institutions such as the European Commission’s EUROPE DIRECT – Eurodesk Center. Representatives will be on hand to provide information about European Union programs, opportunities for young people, and digital initiatives across Europe.
As always, the spirit of the Maker Faire extends far beyond the technology on display. It is about fostering a sense of curiosity, playfulness, and, above all, community. The event’s organizers hope that by bringing together such a diverse group of makers, they can inspire not only the next generation of inventors but also anyone with a passion for problem-solving and discovery.
The Maker Faire Trieste will open its doors at 2:00 PM on Saturday, with events continuing through the weekend. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to explore, experiment, and engage with the various exhibits and activities on offer. From young children to seasoned engineers, there is something for everyone in this remarkable celebration of human ingenuity.
As Professor Dabholkar aptly put it, “This is where the future of science and technology meets the spirit of the maker movement—a future that is open to everyone, curious, and endlessly creative.”
