Two decades ago, a spark of creativity ignited in San Mateo, California, giving birth to an event that would grow into a global movement: Maker Faire. What began as a modest gathering of innovators and tinkerers has blossomed into a vibrant celebration of ingenuity, craftsmanship, and the sheer joy of creation. As we approach the 20th anniversary of the inaugural Maker Faire Bay Area, we’re taking a moment to reflect on this incredible journey and reconnect with the pioneering spirits who made it all possible.
A Journey of Innovation: From 2006 to Today
On April 22, 2006, the San Mateo Fairgrounds buzzed with an energy that few could have predicted would reshape the landscape of DIY culture. Approximately 200 makers showcased their projects to an eager crowd of 15,000 attendees. It was a testament to the burgeoning maker spirit, a community eager to share, learn, and inspire. No one could have truly foreseen the profound impact Maker Faire would have over the next two decades, fostering countless inventions, businesses, and a worldwide network of creators.
Join the Celebration: Make: Live’s 20th Anniversary Special
To commemorate this significant milestone, Make: is hosting a special edition of Make: Live. Join us on
Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 4 PM Pacific Time
, as Make: founder Dale Dougherty sits down with some of the original makers from that very first 2006 event. This exclusive session offers a unique opportunity to look back at their groundbreaking projects and discover how their work, passions, and contributions to the maker movement have evolved over the past 20 years.
Meet the Pioneering Makers:
- Bruce Gee – From his early days with “Blogger Dump Tank,” discover what new creative avenues Bruce has explored.
- Bruce Shapiro – The visionary behind “The Art of Motion Control” and the beloved “Eggbot (eggplotter),” hear how Bruce continues to push the boundaries of kinetic art.
- Jeffrey McGrew & Jillian Northrup – The dynamic duo of “CNC For Couples” will share their journey in collaborative creation and design.
- Joe Grand – From “Grand Idea Studio Open Lab,” learn about Joe’s latest ventures in hardware hacking and invention.
- Gever Tulley – The mastermind behind “Tulley’s Tinkering Challenge,” find out how Gever continues to inspire hands-on learning and curiosity.
Looking Ahead: Maker Faire Bay Area 2026
While we celebrate the past, the future of making is just around the corner! This year’s Maker Faire Bay Area is set to take place from
September 25–27, 2026
, at the historic Mare Island Naval Shipyard. Prepare for another unforgettable event filled with discovery, innovation, and community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the next chapter of the maker movement.
Learn more about Maker Faire Bay Area REGISTER HERE.
Article by Jamie Agius, Program Coordinator at Make: and former high school science and makerspace teacher.
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