Join The University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) in Port Aransas, Texas, on Saturday, October 3, for Island Science Day, a free, family-friendly celebration of science, discovery, and the Texas coast. The event takes place from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the UT Marine Science Institute, offering visitors of all ages the opportunity to explore interactive exhibits, meet scientists and students, tour research facilities, and discover the groundbreaking marine science happening along the Texas coast.

This year’s celebration marks 85 years of marine science at UTMSI and 20 years of the Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve, highlighting the important research, education, stewardship, and community partnerships that have helped shape our understanding and protection of Texas coastal ecosystems.

Throughout the day, guests can participate in hands-on demonstrations, explore come-and-go activities, visit vendor and outreach booths, enjoy food and refreshments, and take self-guided tours of the Wetlands Education Center and Water Wise Wildlife Garden. Special boat excursions aboard the R/V Katy and Curt Johnson will also offer a closer look at local estuaries, seagrass habitats, and marine life.

Island Science Day is free and open to visitors of all ages, and no registration is required to attend. Registration is required for demonstrations and boat excursions, however, and space is limited. In-person registration will take place at the Patton Center Auditorium at 855 E. Cotter Ave. in Port Aransas beginning at 9:30 a.m. for demonstrations. Boat excursion registration opens one hour before each scheduled departure and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you’re in the Austin area, make a day trip or weekend getaway to the coast and experience Island Science Day in Port Aransas. We hope you’ll join us on Saturday, October 3, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m., for a day of hands-on science, exploration, and celebration of the Texas coast.