KANNAPOLIS – All ages are invited to a showcase of interactive displays and experiments at the eighth annual STEM Open House from 5 to 8 p.m. today at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College’s center on the North Carolina Research Campus.

The open house promises to be an evening of fun for the entire family, with dozens of interactive exhibits related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics to stimulate the curiosity of children and adults alike.

Visitors will learn how many applications STEM subjects have in everyday life as they participate in activities ranging from the launch of a weather balloon and an X-ray football competition to learning about home construction, firefighting and diesel engines.

“We look forward to the STEM Open House each year because we love to see the smiles and looks of delight as people explore all things STEM,” said Carol Scherczinger, Rowan-Cabarrus dean of arts and sciences. “Younger children and adult science buffs have an equally great time.”

The open house is part of the N.C. Science Festival, a monthlong celebration across the state intended to bring science to life for children and adults. Many exhibits are designed around this year’s theme, “Made in North Carolina.”

In addition to the open house today, area high schools will bring students to see the exhibits on Friday.

The public is invited to bring nonperishable foods to be donated to the Rowan-Cabarrus food pantry, which assists students in need.

“There are literally hundreds of thousands of job vacancies in STEM-related industries, yet many people are not aware of the opportunities and fields that exist,” said college President Carol S. Spalding. “Bringing STEM to life for the community helps bring awareness to the many avenues that can lead to fulfilling, high-paying jobs.”

The STEM Open House will be at the Rowan-Cabarrus building on the N.C. Research Campus, 399 Biotechnology Lane in Kannapolis. For more information, visit http://www.rccc.edu/stem or call 704-216-RCCC (7222).