UPTON, NY — Where can you go on a summer Sunday on Long Island to see exciting science shows, enjoy tours of world-class science facilities, and engage in hands-on science activities for the whole family ― all for free? Visit the U.S. Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory on Summer Sundays from July 14 to August 4, and enjoy a fun-filled Sunday while learning about dynamic scientific developments at the Lab.

No reservations are needed, but visitors age 16 and older must bring a photo I.D. Visitors may arrive any time between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Arrive early to avoid crowds; all activities are on a first-come, first-served basis. A different facility will be featured each week and the last facility tour takes place at 3 p.m. Science shows will be held at noon, 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. each Sunday in Berkner Hall. A cafeteria and gift shop, also located in Berkner Hall, will be open until 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., respectively.

The full Summer Sundays schedule follows:

July 14 - Family Fun Day

A fabulous day of hands-on family fun! Use the basic scientific method to explore magnets, mirrors, and more. Hop aboard a fire truck and learn all about the Laboratory's protective services. Be captivated by "Phenomenal Physics" with Mr. Fish and see the "Fire Safety" show.

July 21 - Brilliant Light, Dazzling Discoveries

Tour the National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS) and the next generation NSLS-II, currently under construction. See how scientists illuminate the inner working of proteins, polymers, computer chips, and more. Take the synchrotron quiz for a chance to win a special prize. Be enthralled by the "Science Laser Light Spectacular."

July 28 - Exploring the Ultra Small*

Visit the Center for Functional Nanomaterials, where Brookhaven researchers probe structures as tiny as a billionth of a meter. Learn about scientists' latest discoveries in innovative technologies. Be excited by the "Magic of Energy" show.

August 4 - Atom-Smashing Fun*

Visit the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, a world class-particle accelerator where physicists re-create the conditions of the universe as they believe it existed microseconds after the Big Bang! Stump a physicist and meet "Einstein Alive."

*Appropriate for ages 10 and over

Call (631) 344-2651 for more information on Summer Sundays. The Laboratory is located on William Floyd Parkway (County Road 46), one-and-a-half miles north of Exit 68 of the Long Island Expressway.

Tags: community, summer sundays