The Wond’ry hosted the Tennessee Maker Fest on Oct. 4, welcoming makers from across the state to showcase their innovations. The event offered families the chance to explore new technologies, engage with interactive exhibits and discover the creativity behind Tennessee’s maker community.
The event featured robot battles, hands-on crafts and the energy of a mini Star Wars convention (with actual characters live). From 3D printing demos, laser-cut creations, drone races and DIY art stations, the day was filled with fun for all ages.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, attendees wandered through the Wond’ry’s collaborative spaces, chatting with local creators, engineers and artists. The event captured the spirit of innovation that defines Vanderbilt’s creative hub: where imagination comes to life.
Lockpicking 101
At this year’s Tennessee Maker Fest, attendees got a hands-on look at the intricate world of lock mechanics. Through interactive demonstrations featuring transparent training locks and guided workshops, participants learned how precision, patience and design come together in crafting secure mechanisms. The exhibit invited both beginners and enthusiasts to rethink the engineering in everyday objects.
Tabling organizations at the Maker Fest
The Tennessee Maker Fest at the Wond’ry showcased the wide spectrum of innovation happening across Vanderbilt and beyond. From nanoscale demonstrations to groundbreaking student research projects. Attendees explored hands-on STEM activities led by the Vanderbilt Institute of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, with organizers exhibiting real-world applications of mechanical engineering and robotics. Each exhibit reflected the Maker Fest’s mission for education, inspiring curiosity and discovery for makers of all ages.
Star Wars robotics
Bringing science fiction to life, the Star Wars robotics exhibit seemed to draw curious crowds at the Tennessee Maker Fest. Families and fans alike marveled at life-sized droids and interactive displays that combined nostalgia with cutting-edge technology. From Grogu’s friendly waves to R2-D2’s signature beeps, the showcase highlighted how creativity, engineering and fandom can come together to inspire the next generation of innovators.
