Rocket festival returns to Downey space center

DOWNEY – Rockety Fever - Southern California’s only urban rocket festival – returns to the Columbia Memorial Space Center next Saturday, Aug. 12, from 10 am to 5 pm. 

The free, all-day event features over 200 solid fuel modelrockets soaring into the sky. 

Children attending Rocket Fever will receive a free model rocket (while supplies last) and have an opportunity to build and launch their rocket on-site. 

To ensure a rocket launch, participants must register for a build and launch time slot. Registration is available on the Space Center’s website. The cost is $5. 

A limited number of on-site registrations will be available the day of the event. Launches are limited to 200 people. 

“I’m thrilled about Rocket Fever, especially at a time when there’s so much buzz about space travel and exploration,” said Ben Dickow, president and executive director of the Columbia Memorial Space Center. “The day should be both fun and educational for all.”

Admission to Rocket Fever is free thanks to a sponsorship by Financial Partners Credit Union. 

“For over a decade, Rocket Fever has brought families together ane encouraged curiosity and creative imagination,” said Nader Moghaddam, chairman of the Columbia Memorial Space Center Foundation and president and CEO of Financial Partners. “Financial Partners is proud to have sponsored this invaluable Southern California tradition since its inception. As a tribute to our pioneering aerospace roots, we remain committed to STEM education which helps build strong families and communities. I’m excited to witness the children at the Space Center launching rockets and pursuing their dreams once again this year. 

For more information about Rocket Fever, or to sign up for a launch, visit columbiaspacescience.org.