COMMUNITY EVENTS

The Hormel Institute extends its commitment beyond the laboratory to actively participate in community events.

State Fair

Recurring Events and Exhibits

Science Saturdays

The Hormel Institute is proud to offer Science Saturdays several times throughout the year to inspire the next generation of scientists. Participants receive educational science kits with all the supplies and instructions you need to conduct a science experiment and learn from your results. 

Kit pick-up instructions and Science Saturday dates are shared on our website and social media in the weeks leading up to the events. 

Science Saturday

Discover Science Together

Discoveries are even more fun when we make them together! Each year, we host a public event for all ages that provides opportunities for young people and their families to engage in hands-on STEM learning activities. 

Art of Microscopy

“The Art of Microscopy” art exhibit can be found in the hallways of Riverland Community College in Austin. These art pieces serve as not only a way to showcase the work being done at The Hormel Institute, but also to educate those who walk by them to know what these various images look like under a microscope.

Bring the magic of microscopy to your own neighborhood: Thirteen additional images are available to be checked out as a traveling exhibit for display around the region upon request.  Email HI_COE@umn.edu for more information.

Upcoming Events

Discover Science Together at The Hormel Institute

June 15, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Ignite your curiosity, expand your knowledge, and celebrate the wonders of science with us! The Discover Science Together experience at The Hormel Institute invites all ages to embark on a morning full of interactive, hands-on exhibits, activities, and informative talks given by researchers in partnership with various community organizations. 

No registration required, and the event is free!

  • Learn about scientists’ groundbreaking studies.
  • Take a unique “stroll through the colon” with MGNI Digestive Health to learn about colorectal cancer prevention. 
  • Immerse yourself in a mini laboratory setup, where you can peer through microscopes and marvel at the intricate world of cells. 
  • Discover how exercise and diet impact overall human health and wellbeing.
  • Delve into the realm of preventative care. 
Discover Science

In Development: Survivorship, Health, and Wellness

October 5, 3–5 p.m.

We are dedicated to crafting a comprehensive program tailored to meet your needs. Your voice matters in shaping this endeavor, and we’re committed to building it around your desires. 

  • What rural health services are you interested in? 
  • What health and cancer survivorship resources would you like to receive? 
  • Where would you like to attend, and how often?

Help us understand your requirements by participating in our survey.

Together we’ll pave the way for a supportive, empowering journey towards optimal health and wellness. Follow the links below to share your valuable insights.

Take the Survey in English

Take the Survey in Spanish

Our first event will take place on October 5 at The Hormel Institute. Come any time between 3 and 5 p.m.


Wellness on Wheels (WOW)

Date and locations forthcoming

The Hormel Institute is collaborating with Mower County Health and Human Services to bring essential health services directly to rural Mower County communities and Austin. Our mobile unit will visit various locations to offer health screenings, education, and vital resource information.

Stay tuned for announcements on upcoming dates and locations! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to prioritize your health and wellbeing, right in your own community.


Celebrating Wellness and Survivorship

Details and pre-registration forthcoming 

Enjoy appetizers and refreshments while you enjoy a musical performance on the piano by Phillip Daniel. 

Various booths showcasing local organizations will offer valuable information and resources. Engage in conversations, meet researchers, and learn about the research taking place at The Hormel Institute. 

Eventgoers will have the opportunity to participate in a community survey to offer feedback for future events and informational needs.

Past Events

The Community Outreach and Education team, in partnership with researchers from The Hormel Institute, have organized community health fairs featuring information booths from local organizations and preventive screenings, including mammograms provided by the Mayo Clinic mobile mammogram unit and offered preventive educational materials. Additionally, we have actively participated in community events and booths, showcasing research, clinical studies, and offering preventive information.

taste