5 cool things to see at Maker Faire KC (GIFs)

Maker Faire has been described as part science fair, part county fair. The local event, which runs June 27-28 at Union Station, showcases innovations, science, crafts, and hobbies from more than 35o makers.

Kansas City’s Maker Faire is part of a larger, multi-city movement that began in San Mateo, California.

Here are five cool things seen at this year’s Faire.

1. Robots

High school robotics teams demonstrated what their machines can do.

2. 3D printers 

Professional companies, hobbyists and university teams had live 3D printing demonstrations. 3D printers take a 3D scanned image or design and “print” it using a filament, usually made of plastic.

3. Not your average dunk tank

Two Bit Circus brought its “Dunk Tank Flambé,” which is like a dunk tank with fire instead of water. The lucky volunteer suited up in a foil suit beforehand.

One attraction being brought back this year to the Maker Faire is the Flambé tank, where participants don a fire-proof suit and step inside a fire-filled tank. (Photo: Bridgit Bowden |Flatland)

One attraction being brought back this year to the Maker Faire is the Flambé tank, where participants don a fire-proof suit and step inside a fire-filled tank. (Photo: Bridgit Bowden |Flatland)

One attraction being brought back this year to the Maker Faire is the Flambé tank, where participants don a fire-proof suit and step inside a fire-filled tank. (Photo: Bridgit Bowden |Flatland)

4. Drones

These drones were kept under a tent, just in case someone decided to fly away.

5. Costumed characters

Iron Man, Groot from “Guardians of the Galaxy,” Chewbacca, R2D2 and others were available for photos.