Spend an afternoon exploring the coast, science and culture at Skidaway Marine Science Day, a free, family-friendly event for all ages on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University of Georgia Skidaway Marine Science Campus, located on the north end of Skidaway Island.
Skidaway Marine Science Day brings science to life with hands-on activities throughout the campus. The UGA Aquarium will have free admission, featuring behind-the-scenes tours, a hands-on reptile exhibit and lab demonstrations. On the bluff behind the aquarium, environmental organizations and coastal researchers will host interactive exhibits that let visitors explore Georgia’s coastal ecosystems and marine life up close.
At the UGA Shellfish Research Lab, visitors will learn about oysters through hands-on activities that highlight aquaculture and oyster restoration.
The event will also feature tours of two research vessels. The R/V Savannah, a 104-foot ocean-going research vessel operated by the UGA Skidaway Institute of Oceanography, will be open for visitors alongside Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary’s R/V Gannet, a 52-foot vessel commissioned in 2023 that supports research, diving operations and public education.
New this year, members of the Gullah Geechee community will offer basket weaving, art and cooking demonstrations, celebrating the culture and traditions of the region. These activities are presented in partnership with the Lowcountry Network, a collaboration between the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, South Carolina Sea Grant, and UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, highlighting the region’s rich coastal and cultural heritage.
All activities are free, and food will be available for purchase.
“We hope to see people of all ages on campus, connecting with nature and learning about the amazing research happening on the coast.” said Shannon Matzke, public programs coordinator for UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant. “This event is all about engaging with the community and sparking curiosity in the next generation of marine scientists.”
The open house is presented by the UGA Skidaway Institute of Oceanography, UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, and NOAA’s Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary.
For more information, visit https://gacoast.uga.edu/event/smsd-2025/
