Become a Member
    |
Member Log-In    |
Donate
   |
Bean Sprouts Cafe
Big Machines DayBuilt for Big Curiosity!
Big Machines Day

The Biggest Event of the Year

Big Machines Day is McWane Science Center’s annual celebration of the powerful machines that build, move, lift, and shape our world. Guests of all ages can explore an impressive lineup of vehicles and equipment, from construction and utility trucks to specialty machines, while learning how they work and the people who operate them. This family-friendly event connects real-world technology with science and engineering concepts, offering an engaging way to spark curiosity about STEM while discovering the big machines that keep our communities moving.

Two children wearing colorful construction hard hats smile outside McWane Science Center during Big Machines Day, surrounded by families
Promotional graphic for McWane Science Center’s Big Machines Day event on March 7, 2026, featuring a bold yellow road‑sign design on an orange and black industrial textured background.

Presented By

Vulcan Industrial Contractors logo with star and red V, WBENC certified sponsor of the children's science center

Supported by

Baptist Health logo, sponsor of our children's science center

Powered by

CraneWorks, RentalWorks, WasteWorks logo for kids engineering and recycling exhibit at the children's science center

Big Machines Day is Back & Bigger Than Ever!

March 7, 2026 | 10 am-4 pm
McWane Member Sneak Peek: 9 am-10 am

This year we’re doubling the excitement by expanding onto 19th Ave N and 3rd Ave N, creating more space for massive machines, family fun, and STEM discovery. Whether you love construction equipment, giant trucks, or just seeing incredible vehicles up close, this high-energy day is built for curious minds of all ages.
Check out the 2026 program here: 2026 Big Machines Day Digital Program

What You’ll Experience

  • Touch and explore construction equipment, farming tractors, an 18-wheeler, a monster truck, & more!
  • A dedicated Kidz Zone
  • Live DJ entertainment
  • A full day of STEM activities, including hourly watermelon drops!
Price

This event is included with museum admission:
Adults: $20.96
Children: $16.95
Seniors: $19.95
Kids under 2: Free

On-site Parking: $5 per vehicle

Members receive free parking and unlimited visits as part of their benefits, including on Big Machines Day!

Purchase Tickets
Parking

McWane Science Center has an on-site parking deck with a limited capacity. Please see the map below for additional parking options.
Be aware of tow-away zones. Lots marked “permit parking only” are tow-away zones and they will tow your vehicle at your expense.

Parking map to McWane Science Center in downtown Birmingham with BPA decks 3, 6, 7 and paid lots near 2nd Ave N & 19th St N
Child engaging with the controls of a compact construction vehicle at Big Machines Day.
Child sitting inside construction equipment and exploring the control joysticks during Big Machines Day.
Child wearing a safety helmet while sitting on a small excavator.
Fire engine parked on a city street with families gathered around it.
Crane outside McWane Science Center IMAX Dome Theater during outdoor STEM event
Heavy‑duty Rental Works dump truck on display at Big Machines Day.
Children working together on a colorful STEM craft project at a table.
Compact cranes displayed at Big Machines Day with families gathered around.
Child exploring the driver’s seat of a large commercial truck.
Thank You to Our 2026 Big Machines Day Partners

CraneWorks | RentalWorks | WasteWorks

Church Transportation

TriGreen Equipment

Weil Wrecker

Rocket City Combat Robots

Iron City Wranglers

The BJCC & Monster Jam

Nascar

Spire

Hand in Paw

Back To Top