The Brown Brain Fair is an annual celebration of neuroscience held in March that brings hundreds of children, families, students, and community members to Brown for a day of hands-on brain science. Organized in collaboration with Brain Waves RI and Brown neuroscience graduate students, the fair transforms neuroscience research into interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.

Guests can explore everything from watching their own brain waves through EEG demonstrations and interacting with BrainGate technology to learning how memory works in the hippocampus, meeting Brown researchers, and getting colorful neurons painted on their faces. Brown Brain Bee volunteers help bring the event to life by welcoming families, running activities, supporting demonstrations, and, importantly, keeping the popcorn machine going!

More than anything, the Brain Fair is about creating a space where scientists and community members can learn from one another. We hope visitors leave with a new favorite brain fact, a greater understanding of the research happening around them, and the excitement to keep asking questions about how the brain works.

In 2026, the Brown Brain Fair was recognized by Brown University's Student Activities Office with the “Event of the Year” Award.