POTSDAM -- SUNY Potsdam’s Department of Chemistry is perfecting a formula for fun with the third annual Chemtoberfest, a free family festival Friday, Sept. 27.

“We plan for Chemtoberfest to be bigger and better than ever -- third time’s a charm! Last year, we focused on the student involvement aspect of the event, by collaborating with a number of student-run organizations on campus. This year, we’ve reached out to campus departments and local business partners as well,” said event chair John C. Proetta, an adjunct instructor of chemistry.

The celebration will be offered from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Barrington Student Union Plaza, rain or shine, with the event moving into the union if needed. Parking is available in Lots 31 or 20.

Chemtoberfest 2013 will feature science demonstrations, a chemistry magic show, interactive activities and snacks provided by Potsdam Auxiliary College Education Services. Attendees will have a chance to run across “oobleck,” a Dr. Seuss-inspired substance that has properties of both liquids and solids. They can also make flubber, and visit the alchemy station. Fluorescent materials will be on display along with music in a “rave cave.” There will be cinema chemistry demonstrations, so guests can learn about the science behind the effects in the Harry Potter movies as well. Free face painting will be offered all day. Other activities include a reptile petting zoo, demonstrations of forensic science and a do-it-yourself lava lamp station. Guests can also learn about the chemistry behind spray tanning and natural hair dyes. There will even be a helicopter landing at the event.

The entertainment line-up is as follows:

11:30 a.m.: Dr. Walker’s Band

12 p.m.: Chemistry magic show

1 p.m.: Voices of Victory gospel choir

1:30 p.m.: Team NV dance team

2 p.m.: We Build Tomorrow

2:30 p.m.: The Homewreckers

3 p.m.: The A-Sharps

3:30 p.m.: The Potsdam Pitches

4 p.m.: Stay Tuned

4:30 p.m.: Potsdam Pointercounts

The Tap Dance Club and Northern Ice & Dance will also perform, as will the SUNY Potsdam Musical Theatre Organization.

Chemtoberfest business partners include North Country Neighbors, Evans & White ACE Hardware, Northern Music & Video, Foxy Roxy’s, The Hop, Northern Ice & Dance, Willow Tree Florist, LifeNET of Northern New York, High Peaks Winery, St. Lawrence Brewing Co., Misty Hollow and Triple “A” Building Center.

Campus sponsors include: the departments of chemistry, biology, geology, physics and environmental science, as well as Student Health Services and the Office of Career Planning.

Student group sponsors include the SUNY Potsdam Tap Club, the Harry Potter Alliance, Biology Club, Beta Beta Beta biology honor society, Gamma Sigma Epsilon chemistry honor society and Phi Eta Sigma first-year honor society, as well as the Zeta Gamma Sigma and Phi Kappa Pi sororities.

For more information about Chemtoberfest 2013, contact Proetta at proettjc@potsdam.edu or call the Department of Chemistry at 267-2264.