NI Science Festival To Roll Into County Down In February
- 12-day extravaganza brings science to life with hundreds of events across Northern Ireland
NI Science Festivalxa0has officially launched its 2025 programme and will make its way to the South Down area as part of a 12-day extravaganza that will bring science to life with hundreds of events across Northern Ireland from 12thxa0– 23rdxa0February.
Established in 2014, NI Science Festival has grown to become the largest celebration of its kind on the island of Ireland and one of the leading science festivals in Europe.
For its 11th edition, the festival will present more than 300 events across Northern Ireland, focusing on our rich and diverse natural environment, our engineering and manufacturing heritage, sustainability, technology, the mind and body, and much more.
NI Science Festival director Sarah Jones said: “The NI Science Festival is a celebration of science, creativity, and the world around us, designed to be engaging and enjoyable for everyone.
“Over 12 days, the festival will pop up in venues across Northern Ireland, showcasing the incredible work of local researchers and scientists alongside some well-known guest speakers.
“This year’s programme is packed with exciting events for all ages, offering something for everyone.
“It’s an opportunity to embrace the joy of discovery, explore the power of ideas, and celebrate the possibilities science brings to our everyday lives.”
The festival’s regional roadshow will touch down in Bangor with a series of events, includingxa0Chemistry & the Celtsxa0on Wednesday 12thxa0February at SPACE in the South Eastern Regional College campus.
An immersive exploration into the world of the Irish Celts with Scientific Sue, this engaging show, supported by Almac, brings ancient traditions to life, blending the wonders of chemistry with the rich tapestry of Celtic history.
Also taking place at SPACE is Look Closer where little explorers embark on a fun-filled journey of discovery into nature’s wonders with screenings of BBC/CBeebies Tiny Wonders followed by hands-on experiments in Mini Lab Zones where the budding researchers will get to use real microscopes and take a closer look at fascinating little curiosities from nature.
Mount Stewart’s Amazing Microclimatexa0on Monday 17thxa0and Friday 21stxa0February is an opportunity to explore Mount Stewart’s unique gardens, known for their Mediterranean and exotic plants, while learning about the impact of climate change on their future.
Join the National Trust and University of Bristol research team on a 2.5km walk to discover how climate data helps plan for the garden’s sustainability.
Set off on a kayaking adventure on Saturday 22nd February as you Paddle with a Purpose as part of an island litter pick on Strangford Lough.
As spring arrives on Strangford Lough bringing with it the arrival of an array of seasonal wild food join Rory Martin of Strangford Lough Activity Centre and David Thompson & Celia Spouncer from Wild About Tours for a unique guide to the sights and flavours of the area in Foraging Afloat on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd February.
At the Ulster Transport Museum in Cultra on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd February teacher and television presenter Grace Webb will host Grace’s Transport Timeline where families are invited to step back in time to explore some of the incredible machines on display and find out how these machines have evolved into really cool gadgets ready for life in the 21st century.
Paddle Back in Time on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th February with Rory Martin and Dr. Sarah Baccianti for a kayaking adventure that blends outdoor exploration with rich local heritage as you glide along a historic smuggling route to Mahee Island.
Rhododendron Discoveryxa0on Thursday 20thxa0February is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Rowallane Garden in full bloom.
Step into the vibrant world of rhododendrons with Head Gardener Claire in this enchanting walk through the garden as you learn the fascinating backstory behind these hardy plants.
For more information and to view the full programme, visit:
