Upcoming Events
C2ST achieves its mission by hosting relevant, independent, and credible public STEM programs across all scientific fields at locations throughout Chicagoland. With nine out of ten program attendees’ expectations fulfilled, our supporters agree that C2ST is accomplishing its mission of increasing the public’s understanding of science and technology.
We are dedicated to providing a professional and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, or religion. Please be respectful of diversity in individuals and in cultures at our events.
Miss an event? Anyone across the globe can access our STEM program library by visiting our YouTube channel, C2ST TV. Also be sure to follow us on Facebook, where we livestream many of our programs.
Check out below what programs we have planned and discover what we’ve hosted in the past.
Privacy Policy
As a guest of Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST), you agree to be photographed, videotaped, or filmed and grant C2ST permission to put the finished footage/photography to any uses that it may deem proper including marketing, advertising (print, radio, and television) and PR-related activities.
We only have access to/collect information when you sign up for our programs or that you voluntarily give us via email or other direct contacts from you. We will not sell or rent this information to anyone. We will not share your information with any third party outside of our organization.
Filter Events
April 17, 2026
4:00 pm
– 5:00 pm
Lawndale Pop-Up Spot, Love Blooms Here Plaza
Lawndale Pop-Up Spot, West Douglas Boulevard, Chicago, IL, USA
Program Series:
Climate, Energy, and EnvironmentHealth and WellnessLife SciencePhysical Science
Join us for a special Fridays on the Plaza event at the Lawndale Pop-Up Spot, where community, and science come together in a meaningful way.
Curious about what’s in the soil beneath your feet? During this interactive event, environmental scientists will be on-site offering free heavy metal soil testing for community members. Bring a small sample of soil from your yard, garden, or neighborhood space and learn about the presence of metals like lead, arsenic, and more, along with what those results mean for your health and environment.
Come be part of a conversation about environmental health, right here in Lawndale.
April 13, 2026
6:00 pm
– 7:30 pm
Harold Washington Library Center, Multipurpose Room
Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago Public Library, South State Street, Chicago, IL, USA
Program Series:
Life ScienceScience and Society
The Chicago Council on Science and Technology and Chicago Public Library present The Science of Pokemon! In the world of Pokemon, adventurous explorers – called Pokemon trainers – can travel far and wide, catching and cataloging fantastical creatures to fill out their Pokedex, a digital index of various pokemon species. While you can’t find a Pikachu in any of the viridian forests on Earth, Pokemon masters have a real-world counterpart in the form of scientists! Scientists can be found in every corner of the world, discovering new species and cataloging their unique characteristics. This real life data collection has become the foundation for the design of Pokemon themselves! We’ve brought a panel of experts from across the sciences to talk to us about the real-life plants and animals that Pokemon are based on. If you’ve ever wanted the chance to have a conversation with Professor Oak, this is the next best thing! We’ve gotta catch them all!
March 27, 2026
1:30 pm
– 2:15 pm
Room S401-ABC
McCormick Place - South Building, South Doctor Martin Luther King Junior Drive, Chicago, IL, USA
Program Series:
Life ScienceScience and Society
Wild Science Encounters: Beyond the Pokeball
In the world of Pokemon, adventurous explorers- called Pokemon trainers- can travel far and wide, catching and cataloging fantastical creatures to fill out their Pokedex, a digital index of various pokemon species. While you can’t find a Pikachu in any of the viridian forests on Earth, Pokemon masters have a real-world counterpart in the form of scientists! Scientists can be found in every corner of the world, discovering new species and cataloging their unique characteristics. This real life data collection has become the foundation for the design of Pokemon themselves! We’ve brought a panel of experts from across the sciences to talk to us about the real-life plants and animals that Pokemon are based on. If you’ve ever wanted the chance to have a conversation with Professor Oak, this is the next best thing! We’ve gotta catch them all!
March 4, 2026
3:30 pm
– 4:30 pm
Perlstein Hall, Room 131; 10 West 33rd Street, Chicago, IL, USA
Perlstein Hall, West 33rd Street, Chicago, IL, USA
Program Series:
Technology and Engineering
In today’s world, bold innovation is not just desirable, it’s essential for a sustainable future. Join Jennifer Holmgren, CEO of LanzaTech, as she shares her journey transforming “impossible” ideas into global solutions for the circular carbon economy. This inspiring talk explores the intersection of perseverance, daring to dream big, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to rethink how we obtain, use, and dispose of carbon. Read more…
Curious about the science behind your favorite brews? Want to learn how the beloved ‘Daisycutter Pale Ale’ from Half Acre Beer Co. is made?
Join C2ST for an exciting evening of science, beer flights, and great food at Half Acre Beer Co. during our Annual Fall Social! This in-person event is your chance to dive into the fascinating science of beer-making! Connect with fellow science lovers in a fun atmosphere, while enjoying a behind-the-scenes look at one of Chicago’s most acclaimed breweries.
November 3, 2025
5:30 pm
Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S State St. Chicago, IL 60605
Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago Public Library, South State Street, Chicago, IL, USA
Program Series:
Science and SocietyTechnology and Engineering
Join C2ST and the National Science Policy Network for a conversation with policymakers, legal experts, and researchers as we explore AI’s influence on medicine and the crucial role science policy plays in shaping its future. You’ll have the chance to engage with the experts and share your own questions and insights.