Recurring Events and Exhibits
Science Saturdays
The Hormel Institute is proud to offer Science Saturdays several times throughout the year to inspire the next generation of scientists. Participants receive educational science kits with all the supplies and instructions you need to conduct a science experiment and learn from your results.
Kit pick-up instructions and Science Saturday dates are shared on our website and social media in the weeks leading up to the events. The next Science Saturday will take place at Austin Public library on April 27 — find more details below.
Discover Science Together
Discoveries are even more fun when we make them together! Each year, we host a public event for all ages that provides opportunities for young people and their families to engage in hands-on STEM learning activities.
Art of Microscopy
“The Art of Microscopy” art exhibit can be found in the hallways of Riverland Community College in Austin. These art pieces serve as not only a way to showcase the work being done at The Hormel Institute, but also to educate those who walk by them to know what these various images look like under a microscope.
Bring the magic of microscopy to your own neighborhood: Thirteen additional images are available to be checked out as a traveling exhibit for display around the region upon request. Email HI_COE@umn.edu for more information.
Upcoming Events
A Work of Art: Creating Food Security
April 25 4:30 – 7 p.m.
The Hormel Institute is a sponsor and participant for this upcoming event celebrating creative projects from local students and sharing information about the fight against food insecurity in Mower County and around the world. The event is offered in partnership by the Hometown Food Security Project and Hormel Foods.
This family-friendly, come-and-go event is free and open to the community.
For more information about this event, visit the Hometown Food Security Project website.
Location: SPAM Museum
Science Saturday at Austin Public Library
April 27, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
The Hormel Institute is teaming up with the Austin Public Library to offer a Science
Saturday on April 27! Come any time between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Austin Public Library, 323 4th Ave NE.
Come participate in a hands-on science activity and meet a researcher from The Hormel Institute!
Check back for future Science Saturday dates.
Discover Science Together at The Hormel Institute
June 15, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Ignite your curiosity, expand your knowledge, and celebrate the wonders of science with us! The Discover Science Together experience at The Hormel Institute invites all ages to embark on a morning full of interactive, hands-on exhibits, activities, and informative talks given by researchers in partnership with various community organizations.
No registration required, and the event is free!
- Learn about scientists’ groundbreaking studies.
- Take a unique “stroll through the colon” with MGNI Digestive Health to learn about colorectal cancer prevention.
- Immerse yourself in a mini laboratory setup, where you can peer through microscopes and marvel at the intricate world of cells.
- Discover how exercise and diet impact overall human health and wellbeing.
- Delve into the realm of preventative care.
In Development: Survivorship, Health, and Wellness
October 5, 3–5 p.m.
We are dedicated to crafting a comprehensive program tailored to meet your needs. Your voice matters in shaping this endeavor, and we’re committed to building it around your desires.
- What rural health services are you interested in?
- What health and cancer survivorship resources would you like to receive?
- Where would you like to attend, and how often?
Help us understand your requirements by participating in our survey.
Together we’ll pave the way for a supportive, empowering journey towards optimal health and wellness. Follow the links below to share your valuable insights.
Our first event will take place on October 5 at The Hormel Institute. Come any time between 3 and 5 p.m.
Wellness on Wheels (WOW)
Date and locations forthcoming
The Hormel Institute is collaborating with Mower County Health and Human Services to bring essential health services directly to rural Mower County communities and Austin. Our mobile unit will visit various locations to offer health screenings, education, and vital resource information.
Stay tuned for announcements on upcoming dates and locations! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to prioritize your health and wellbeing, right in your own community.
Celebrating Wellness and Survivorship
Details and pre-registration forthcoming
Enjoy appetizers and refreshments while you enjoy a musical performance on the piano by Phillip Daniel.
Various booths showcasing local organizations will offer valuable information and resources. Engage in conversations, meet researchers, and learn about the research taking place at The Hormel Institute.
Eventgoers will have the opportunity to participate in a community survey to offer feedback for future events and informational needs.
Past Events
The Community Outreach and Education team, in partnership with researchers from The Hormel Institute, have organized community health fairs featuring information booths from local organizations and preventive screenings, including mammograms provided by the Mayo Clinic mobile mammogram unit and offered preventive educational materials. Additionally, we have actively participated in community events and booths, showcasing research, clinical studies, and offering preventive information.
