The inaugural Philadelphia Maker Faire set lofty expectations as it emerged as a standout event on the East Coast, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of local makers. However, the unforeseen arrival of COVID-19 just months after its debut halted the momentum of this promising event. Although attempts to revive the Faire in various venues post-pandemic were made, they struggled to meet the high standards established in that initial year.

Fast forward to this past weekend, and the 2025 Philadelphia Maker Faire has once again taken center stage, demonstrating significant growth and enthusiasm from organizers and participants alike. This year marks the second consecutive time the event took place at the Cherry Street Pier, a vibrant mixed-use public space known for its artistic ambiance. This venue not only complements the innovative spirit of Maker Faire but also provides ample room for future expansions.

The pier was abuzz with activity, featuring an array of captivating exhibits and enthusiastic attendees. As the day came to a close, I had the opportunity to converse with numerous participants who expressed sheer delight and optimism about the Faire's trajectory. Their excitement was palpable, suggesting a bright future for this annual gathering of creativity and innovation.

Covering an event as diverse and dynamic as the Maker Faire presents a unique challenge. The sheer volume of innovative projects and ideas shared at the event cannot be fully encapsulated in a single article. However, I want to highlight a few standout projects that caught my attention, and I highly encourage anyone interested in innovation to mark their calendars for 2026s event to experience the full breadth of creativity on display.

Wasteworld Toys

Among the impressive exhibits, Brett Housers Wasteworld Toys left a lasting impression. This extraordinary collection of handcrafted remote-controlled vehicles draws inspiration from the dystopian Mad Max universe, complete with a unique cast of post-apocalyptic characters born from Brett's vivid imagination.

Whether viewed as breathtaking pieces of art or remarkable technological feats, the craftsmanship involved in these creations was undeniable. While some components included 3D-printed parts and repurposed model kits, a substantial portion of the materials was sourced from what many might consider trash. Brett's impressive ability to repurpose everyday items was evident; for instance, he transformed the metal cap of a disposable lighter into an armored faceplate for one of his warriors.

Beyond being aesthetically striking, these vehicles were equipped with various functionalities. One featured a working Airsoft cannon, another was built with a functional flamethrower, and there was even a mobile rocket launcher capable of firing small rockets. However, the creativity didnt stop there: a surveillance van showcased a tiny screen displaying nearby WiFi networks, while a modified station wagon featured an emulated version of the classic game Contra, playable through a Bluetooth-connected PlayStation controller.

Many of these vehicles came with first-person view (FPV) capabilities. The cameras were so cleverly integrated into the design that attendees initially mistook them for mere decorative elements. To enhance the immersive experience, several vehicles boasted displays visible only through the FPV gear, such as digital battery voltage readouts.

In addition to the impressive technology, it was Brett's humble demeanor and eagerness to engage with attendees that truly resonated with me. His willingness to let attendees take control of his creations was met with enthusiasm, reinforcing that the Wasteworld exhibit had found an excellent ambassador in Brett.

Myelin BCI Board

For those familiar with Hackaday, the OpenBCI project made waves in the tech community about a decade ago by providing cost-effective development boards for exploring brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). This innovative project inspired creative uses, such as a flying shark controlled by EEG signals; however, OpenBCI has since shifted its focus towards developing a high-end mixed-reality headset, leaving enthusiasts concerned about the future of accessible BCI technology.

In response, Mike Recine has created the Myelin, an open-source hardware initiative designed to carry on the legacy of OpenBCI's pioneering work. Utilizing the ESP32, this battery-operated board wirelessly connects to smartphones or computers to deliver 16 channels of EEG data, catering to hobbyists and researchers alike.

Mike plans to launch a Kickstarter campaign soon to offer both assembled Myelin boards and DIY kits for enthusiasts looking to build their own. Currently, the project lacks a significant online presence, but those interested can sign up for updates to be informed when more information becomes available.

A Cardboard Table Saw

The ChompSaw, marketed as a kid-safe power tool for cutting cardboard, surpasses expectations with its innovative design. Rather than using a traditional blade, this machine employs a small metal piston that rapidly nibble away at cardboard, a mechanism described by co-founder Max Liechty as akin to a full-auto hole punch. With no exposed blades, the ChompSaw's design ensures safety by preventing accidents, even if mishandled.

This ingenious device adeptly cuts through cardboard in any direction, allowing users to easily follow patterns and create intricate shapes. While primarily designed for standard cardboard, it also handles other thin materials like paper, foam, and plastic, vastly broadening its application range.

Having raised over $1 million during its 2023 Kickstarter campaign, the ChompSaw is now available for purchase through its website. While it may not be the typical gadget featured in Hackaday articles, its ability to process various materials opens up exciting possibilities for crafting and prototyping, emphasizing the value of creative design.

The Sights of Philly Maker Faire

Beyond the captivating exhibits, I had the pleasure of conversing with those behind the scenes of the Philadelphia Maker Faire. Unsurprisingly, their shared passion for discovering and promoting local talent was evident, along with their enthusiasm for the event's future. There were even discussions about collaborating with other art and technology festivals in the area, such as JawnCon, to create a more vibrant scene.

Despite facing overcast skies, the organizers were thrilled with the turnout, reflecting the event's growing popularity. The venue, Cherry Street Pier, proved more than capable of accommodating the event's needs and is well-positioned for future growth. In short, the Philadelphia Maker Faire has regained its momentum and promises to be an even larger celebration of creativity next year. For anyone in the Northeast US, this is a must-attend event for 2026 and beyond.