Davis Science Fair

Observe – Question – Investigate!

Calling all curious minds and budding scientists—this is your time to shine!

Each year, the Davis Science Fair invites students to explore their passions and investigate the world around them. Whether you're into geology, sports, baking, music, coding—or even cat training—there’s a science project waiting for you.

👩‍🔬 Who Can Participate?

All Davis students are welcome! Projects can be completed individually or in teams of up to three students.

Top projects from grades 3–5 will be selected to represent Davis at the Greater Austin Regional Science and Engineering Fair (GARSEF).

📅 2026 Davis Science Fair Dates

• Projects Due: Monday, January 12, 2026
  Bring completed projects, Davis Entry Form, and Project Research Plan to the front hall before reporting to class.

• Judging: Wednesday, January 12, 2026  8–10am
  Projects will be set up in the hallway and students will be called individually to present their work to a small panel of judges.  The judges will check that the project includes all required elements, but will be most interested in hearing their experiences conducting a science fair project and what they discovered.

• Showcase & Awards Night: Thursday, January 15, 5:30–6:30pm
  Families are invited to celebrate student work!

📝 Project Guidelines

• Use a tri-fold display board (available at office supply or craft stores). NEW for '25-'26 school year - students who need a tri-fold board can request one through their teacher by THURSDAY 12/18 and receive it FREE! Boards will be distributed before winter break.

• Securely attach all materials—writing, drawings, charts, and photos.

• Submit a Davis Entry Form (all students) and a Project Research Plan (grades 3–5 only).

• For full details, refer to the Davis Science Fair Information Packet.

📚 Resources & Info Packets

To help you get started:

• Davis Science Fair Info Packet – Full guidelines for participation

• GARSEF “How To Do an Elementary Science Fair Project – Step-by-Step Guide” – A detailed walkthrough from start to finish

• Science Buddies: The Scientific Method – Great for designing experiments

💡 Need Ideas?

These links are a great starting point for project inspiration! Be sure to check the Davis Science Fair rules (in the Info Packet) before you begin.

• Austin Public Library

• Science Buddies

• Science Bob – Science Fair Ideas

• Discovery Education – Science Fair Central

• iPL2 for Kids

• Rader’s Chem4Kids

• Adventures in Chemistry

🌟 Advancing to Regionals

Top 3rd–5th grade projects will be invited to compete at the Greater Austin Regional Science and Engineering Fair (GARSEF). Key dates include:

• Davis Submission Deadline: Thursday, January 22

• Set-Up Day: Friday, February 20

• Judging & Awards: Saturday, February 21

All families are also welcome to attend public events during the festival. Visit the GARSEF website for full details.

Questions?

Email us at sciencefair@davisdolphins.org

Let’s explore, experiment, and discover—together! 🔬✨