Discover the joy of science as annual NI Science Festival returns County Down
- 2023 festival takes place from Thursday 16 – Sunday 26 February.
Once again you can celebrate the science of you, the universe and everything in between as the NI Science Festival (NISF) returns to County Down.
The annual celebration of all things science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) will returns to venues across Northern Ireland for a jam-packed 11 days of discovery from Thursday 16–Sunday 26 February.
At Silent Valley Reservoir on Thursday 16 February, join NI Water to celebrate 100 years of water supply from this impressive reservoir.
In The Marvel of Cleaning Water, discover how the Men of Mourne constructed the magnificent structure and the fascinating story behind Watertown and the people who lived there.
Wild About… visits Kilbroney Park (Friday 17 February) and Delamont Country Park (Saturday 18 February) for art, games and fun activities for all the family.
Weather permitting, take on wildlife and forest challenges including a scavenger hunt around the park looking for wildlife and geology.
Set off on a kayaking adventure on Sunday 19 February as you Paddle Back in Time, exploring the tranquil River Quoile as it winds along to Inch Abbey, learning more about trader, pilgrim and Viking history of the area.
On Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 February, join Rory from Strangford Lough Activity Centre, along with David and Celia of Wild About, for a unique guide to the sights and flavours of the area as you go Foraging Afloat.
From your kayak or open canoe you’ll learn some local history, as well as having the chance to spot the local wildlife and improve your paddling skills along the way.
The festival will also partner with Northern Ireland Museums Council to present a panel discussion on the ongoing climate emergency at Down County Museum.
The Climate Tour event on Tuesday 21 February will feature representatives from government, local authorities, universities and charities and will be hosted by awarding-winning author and journalist Mark Lynas, author of Our Final Warning: Six Degrees of Climate Emergency.
Commenting on the return of the festival, director, Sarah Jones, says: “This year’s NI Science Festival extends right across Northern Ireland to spread the joy of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics to audiences.
“We aim to ignite interest in the world around us, to spark conversation and debate, and we hope this year’s programme will create new learning opportunities for festival goers old and new.”
NI Science Festival is supported by the Department for the Economy, Belfast City Council, Tourism Northern Ireland, Derry City and Strabane District Council, Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, British Council Northern Ireland, MCS Group, The Open University NI, Innovate UK, Matrix NI, Film Hub NI, Institute of Physics, Belfast Harbour and Halifax Foundation.
The 2023 NI Science Festival runs 16–26 February. For up to date information about events and bookings, visit:
Keep up to date with the festival on social media via Facebook, Twitter and YouTube
