2025 Kentucky Geological Survey Geoscience Open House
On Tuesday October 28, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m., the Kentucky Geological Survey (KGS) will host its 25th annual Open House, inviting students, families, teachers, and earth-science enthusiasts to explore the many wonders of Kentucky’s geology. This long-running tradition offers a hands-on, engaging experience with the natural forces and materials that shape Kentucky.
What to Expect
Time & Location
The event runs from 6:00 to 7:30 pm in and around the Mining and Mineral Resources Building on the University of Kentucky campus (310 Columbia Avenue, Lexington, Kentucky 40506).
Free, Open to All
The open house is free and open to the public. K-12 students, parents, teachers, and anyone with a curiosity about earth science are encouraged to attend.
Interactive Demonstrations & Exhibits
Displays and hands-on activities will include:
- A volcano demonstration, where a simulated eruption captures the drama of volcanic processes.
- A stream table, showing sediment transport, erosion, and deposition in action.
- A sandbox topography display (augmented reality sandbox) that lets visitors mold landforms and “see” how water would flow over and around them.
- An earthquake display or simulation, giving a window into seismic processes.
- Collections of rocks, minerals, fossils, and meteorites, including specimens from Kentucky and beyond.
- Displays on geologic hazards (e.g. landslides, floods), radon, karst features, and other geoscience topics.
- Use of specialized instruments such as scanning electron microscopes to explore rock textures and microstructures.
Collaborating Departments & Groups
The open house is organized by KGS in partnership with UK’s Earth and Environmental Sciences, UK’s Mining Engineering, UK Nursing, the Kentucky Paleontological Society, the Blue Grass Gem and Mineral Club, and other campus and community organizations.
Public Engagement & Education Mission
The objective is to raise awareness of geoscientific processes and natural resources, to foster public appreciation for earth sciences, and to connect the community with researchers and educators.