ENTERTAINMENT
AND EDUCATION
The Main Stage features a variety of activities throughout the festival. With a wide range of educational and entertaining events, this area of the festival has something for everyone! So come listen to STEAM presentations, participate in our costume contests, listen to live music, and more at the Main Stage!
& STEAM PRESENTATIONS
NASA SPEAKERS
The Mars New Year festival's main stage will spotlight presentations from highly esteemed NASA professionals, offering a rare opportunity to hear from leading experts in space exploration. In addition, the stage will feature a variety of presentations and panels with renowned STEAM professionals, providing insights across science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Don't miss this chance to engage with some of the brightest minds in their fields!
2025 SPEAKERS
Dr. Jim Green
​Dr. Jim Green, founder of Space Science Endeavors, dedicated 42 years to NASA before retiring in 2022. With a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Iowa, he served in key roles including NASA’s chief scientist and the longest-serving director of NASA’s Planetary Science Division, where he oversaw landmark Mars missions and earned top awards such as the Exceptional Achievement and Distinguished Service Medals.
Dr. Soyeon Yi
Dr. Soyeon Yi, South Korea's first and only astronaut, launched on an 11‑day ISS mission in 2008. A Mechanical Engineering graduate with a Ph.D. from KAIST—where her work on DNA separation chips inspired STEM education—she also earned an MBA from UC Berkeley. Now, she leads startups and teaches at the International Space University, earning honors such as the Order of Science and Technology Merit.
COSTUME CONTEST
Get ready to show off your best Martian or space-themed costume for a chance to win! The best-dressed Martian or space-themed participant will win fantastic prizes, with $100 for first place, $50 for second place, and a special Mars New Year prize pack for third place. The competition features age categories for 0-12 years old, 13+ years old, and even a category for pets. Join the fun and show off your out-of-this-world costumes !
LIVE MUSIC
Experience the electrifying atmosphere of the Mars New Year festival with live music performances featuring talented local bands and artists. The energetic performances will close out each evening, building excitement for the spectacular nightly drone shows. Stay tuned for the exciting lineup announcement!