Hundreds of middle school girls and their parents and teachers attended the festival at Rice University on Saturday.
Students participated in hands-on workshops and listened to speeches by female scientists while parents and teachers attended workshops on ways to support girls' interests in science and math.
There was also a street fair with booths, activities, food and music.
This is the first festival in Houston since Ride died earlier this year.
Organizers say the late astronaut, who was the first woman in space, wanted to make sure girls received the same support she did when she was student.
For more information on Sally Ride Science, visit www.sallyridescience.com.
