The Computer History Museum (CHM) in Mountain View, California, is continuing its celebration of Apple’s 50th anniversary with “TechFest: Happy Birthday, Apple,” a day-long event scheduled for March 28, 2026. Following a well-received panel discussion last week featuring Apple veterans, the museum is opening its doors for a family-friendly festival exploring the company’s enduring legacy and technological innovations. The event promises a nostalgic trip through Apple’s history, coupled with a glimpse into the future of technology.
The anniversary celebrations began in earnest last week with a panel discussion moderated by tech journalist David Pogue. The event featured prominent figures from Apple’s past, including former CEO John Sculley, Chris Espinosa – an early Apple employee, Jon Rubinstein, former Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, and Avie Tevanian, former Senior Vice President of Software Engineering. The panel, which was live-streamed and is still available for viewing on YouTube, offered insights into the company’s formative years and the challenges and triumphs experienced along the way. The discussion highlighted Sculley’s often-overlooked contributions during his tenure, challenging long-held narratives about his leadership.
TechFest aims to build on that momentum, offering a more interactive experience for attendees of all ages. The museum will showcase vintage Apple computers courtesy of Retro Roadshow, allowing visitors to obtain hands-on with the technology that shaped the personal computing revolution. Attendees can also participate in themed activities, including creating Apple-inspired party hats, dancing to five decades of popular music, and a playful take on a classic game with “Pin the iPod.” A particularly intriguing element of the festival will be the presence of Daniel Kottke, Apple employee number 12, who played a crucial role in assembling the very first Apple I computer in 1976. Kottke will be demonstrating a replica Apple I computer capable of running ChatGPT, showcasing the remarkable evolution of computing power.
The Computer History Museum, founded in 1975, is dedicated to preserving and presenting the stories and artifacts of the information age. Its extensive collection spans the history of computing, from the earliest mechanical calculating devices to the latest advancements in artificial intelligence. The museum’s commitment to documenting Apple’s history is particularly significant, given the company’s profound impact on the world. The “Apple at 50” celebration underscores the importance of understanding the past to inform the future of technology.
A Glance Back at John Sculley’s Leadership
The recent panel discussion and the broader “Apple at 50” celebration have prompted a re-evaluation of John Sculley’s time as Apple’s CEO, from 1985 to 1993. Contrary to some historical accounts, Apple remained profitable and competitive under his leadership, continuing to innovate even amidst internal challenges. Sculley’s decision to preserve the Apple II line, despite Steve Jobs’ desire to focus solely on the Macintosh, is now widely recognized as a critical move that prevented the company from facing bankruptcy. The Apple II continued to generate nearly all of Apple’s profits until 1988, providing a crucial financial foundation for the development of the Macintosh. According to a report by MacObserver, Sculley was not responsible for firing Steve Jobs, but rather the decision was made unanimously by the board of directors, including Jobs’ mentor, Mike Markkula, following a disagreement over the company’s strategic direction.
TechFest Details and Admission
TechFest: Happy Birthday, Apple, will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, California. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs throughout the year, exploring the history and impact of computing. Admission to TechFest is included with the price of museum admission. Tickets range from $6.50 to $21.50, and children aged 0–7 are admitted free. The event is designed to be accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages and technical backgrounds. The Computer History Museum’s website provides detailed information about the event, including a full schedule of activities and ticket purchasing options: https://connect.computerhistory.org/events/01907abf-023d-a52d-aa7d-ed463f99b82d
The event promises a unique opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Apple and explore the evolution of personal computing. From the early days of the Apple I to the cutting-edge capabilities of modern technology, TechFest will offer a comprehensive and engaging experience for anyone interested in the history of innovation. The combination of hands-on exhibits, interactive activities, and the presence of key figures from Apple’s past makes this event a must-attend for tech enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The Computer History Museum’s ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the stories of the digital revolution is vital in understanding the forces that have shaped our world. TechFest: Happy Birthday, Apple, is a testament to that commitment, offering a valuable opportunity to reflect on the past and envision the future of technology. The museum’s broader TechFest series, scheduled to continue after the Apple-themed event, will explore other significant milestones in the history of computing. The next event in the series, the Fellow Awards Ceremony, is scheduled for April 25, 2026.
As Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation, events like TechFest serve as a reminder of the company’s remarkable journey and its enduring impact on society. The museum’s celebration provides a platform for recognizing the contributions of those who have shaped Apple’s success and inspiring the next generation of technologists. The integration of a replica Apple I computer running ChatGPT at the event is a particularly compelling example of how the past and present can converge to create new possibilities.
The Computer History Museum is located at 1401 N Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View, CA 94043. For more information about the museum and its upcoming events, visit https://computerhistory.org/. Retain checking back for updates on future TechFest events and other programs celebrating the history of computing.