Somewhere out there, someone looked at a perfectly good airplane and decided it would make a better limousine. Someone else built a gigantic singing cactus. And an entire group of people decided that what the world really needed was more robots fighting each other. And somehow, they’ve all found their way to Maker Faire Orlando.
Returning Nov. 7-8 to the Central Florida Fairgrounds for its 14th year, the two-day event gathers artists, engineers, inventors and DIY enthusiasts to show off what they’ve been tinkering with. More than 250 exhibits will fill the grounds — and this could range from elaborate cosplay creations and 3D-printed gadgets to the mechanical carnage of Robot Ruckus. There’s also the Power Racing Series, where modified children’s electric cars compete for glory, and presentations exploring everything from gaming to Orlando’s own theme park industry.
But this isn’t a spectator sport. Kids, adults and curious beginners alike can meet the people behind the projects, participate in workshops and get their hands involved in everything from arts and crafts to electronics. No engineering degree required, just a little curiosity and maybe a willingness to get your hands dirty.
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 7-8, Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, makerfaireorlando.com, $15-$20.
