Fall isn’t just for pumpkins, apples, and cinnamon—it’s also the perfect time to mix science, technology, engineering, and math with your favorite seasonal treats! STEM experiments can turn your kitchen or backyard into a lab of wonder.

Get ready to explore the science behind some of your favorite fall foods while having a blast with these hands-on activities!

 

Apple Oxidation Experiment

Ever noticed how apples turn brown after being cut? That’s oxidation at work! In this experiment, campers can test different ways to keep apple slices fresh.

What You’ll Need: Apple slices, lemon juice, salt water, and plain water, and a timer

What to Do: Dip one apple slice in lemon juice, one in salt water, and one in plain water. Leave a fourth slice plain as your control. Wait 10–15 minutes and see which slice stays the freshest!

STEM Connection: This experiment teaches about chemical reactions and how acids (like lemon juice) slow down oxidation.

 

Pumpkin Volcano

If you love classic baking soda volcanoes, you’ll really love making one inside a mini pumpkin!

What You’ll Need: Small pumpkin, baking soda, vinegar, dish soap (optional), and food coloring.

What to Do: Scoop out your pumpkin and fill it halfway with baking soda. Add a few drops of dish soap and food coloring. Pour in vinegar and watch the fizzy “lava” spill over!

STEM Connection: This is an acid-base reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas—science in action with a festive twist!

 

Melting Marshmallow Monster

Create a gooey science experiment using one of fall’s favorite treats—marshmallows!

What You’ll Need: marshmallows, microwave-safe plate, and a microwave

What to Do: Place a marshmallow (or marshmallow creature!) on a plate. Microwave for 10–20 seconds and observe what happens.

STEM Connection: Marshmallows puff up because the air inside expands when heated. It’s a fun way to visualize gas laws and temperature effects!

 

Keep the Curiosity Going!

Fall is full of colorful leaves, cozy campfires, and tasty treats—but it’s also bursting with opportunities to learn. Whether you’re watching a pumpkin bubble over or testing how fast an apple turns brown, you’re using the same problem-solving skills scientists and engineers use every day. So, grab your goggles (or your favorite flannel) and bring a little fall flavor into your next STEM adventure!