The 28th Galway Science & Technology Festival is returning next month, marking the beginning of an exciting programme as part of ‘Research Ireland’s National Science Week’.
This year’s theme, ‘Then, Today, Tomorrow’, will run throughout the Festival’s events, celebrating scientific discoveries of the past, showcasing the latest innovations of today, and inspiring the next generation of scientists, technologists and engineers.
The highlight of the Festival is the fantastic free Family Day Exhibition, which will take place on Sunday, November 9 from 10am–5pm at the University of Galway campus, the Festival’s main education partner.
The Exhibition promises to be a vibrant, family-friendly event, featuring over 100 interactive exhibits, 25 different shows and workshops, and a wide range of experiences for all ages.
Visitors can explore everything from unmissable dinosaurs, exotic bugs, LEGO, to the ever-popular Teddy Bear Hospital, artificial intelligence and live science demonstrations.
Admission is completely free, with tickets for individual shows and workshops available from 9am on Saturday, November 1, via the Festival website. Early booking is recommended, as many of the most popular events fill up quickly.
This year’s programme also features a range of engaging events which are available to the public, including ‘The Science of Women’s Health – Evidence, Insights and Interventions’ sponsored by Research Ireland.
Professor Mary Ryan, Consultant Endocrinologist and author, and internationally renowned breathing expert Patrick McKeown will lead the event taking place on Wednesday, November 12 at the Black Box Theatre.
On Tuesday, November 18 at the Eye Cinema ‘Back to the Future – The Science Behind the Movie’ will feature a screening of the film from 1985, 40 years since its original release.
Plus, attendees will get a cinematic talk with ‘Superhero Scientist’ Barry Fitzgerald, who will explore the fascinating materials and technologies imagined in this iconic film.
Running from November 10 – 14 there will be Artificial Intelligence Workshops in the O’Donoghue Centre at University of Galway, which will be open to the public, focusing on the exciting role of AI in building sustainable cities.
The “My Moving Brain Community Connect” event, exploring brain health and inclusion in sport, takes place on Saturday, November 1 at 1pm in the O’Donoghue Centre, University of Galway.
There will be a ‘Marine Science Exhibition and Workshops’ at Galway City Museum, offering hands-on learning about our oceans.
In addition, the Festival’s annual Schools Programme will bring a wide variety of free science shows and workshops to classrooms across Galway city and county, ensuring that thousands of students have the opportunity to engage directly with Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).
Festival Chair Paul Mee added, “The Festival continues to thrive thanks to the support of our sponsors, partners, and the wider community.”
“By making science accessible and fun, we are not only showcasing innovation but also encouraging young people to see themselves as the scientists, engineers, and problem solvers of the future.”
Festival Manager Anne Murray said, “Our aim has always been to make science accessible, engaging, and fun for everyone.”
“The Festival is not just about showcasing innovation, it’s about creating moments of discovery that families, teachers and young people can share together.”
“This year’s programme highlights how science connects our past, present and future in ways that inspire curiosity and confidence.”
Galway Science & Technology Festival is proudly supported by its main sponsor Medtronic, lead academic partner University of Galway, Research Ireland, and a wide network of local and national partners.
For full details of the programme and to book tickets, visit www.galwayscience.ie
