Spark Discovery at the Cork Carnival of Science 2025!

Discover Free Family Science Fun at Fitzgerald Park from 7th – 8th June 2025

This FREE two-day festival, supported by Research Ireland and Cork City Council, will once again transform one of Cork Cities best loved public green spaces into a sprawling outdoor science lab, where minds of all ages can experiment, explore, and experience the thrill of scientific discovery.

With more than 75,000 visitors attending over the last three years, Cork Carnival of Science has cemented its place as Ireland’s largest outdoor STEM festival. Whether you’re captivated by the wonders of the natural world, fascinated by cutting-edge technology, or eager to try mind-bending experiments, this event is designed to fuel curiosity and fan the flames of innovation.

This year’s festival will feature an even more dynamic programme, spanning physics, chemistry, engineering, biology, and environmental science. From the tiniest molecular reactions to large-scale experiments that make you go "WOW," every corner of Fitzgerald Park will be buzzing with scientific potential!

Highlights of this 2 day weekend of wonder include:

• Electrifying live science shows in the Circus Top and Stretch Tents
• Hands-on experiments and workshops to test, tinker, and create
• Fascinating exhibits showcasing real-world science in action
• Roaming science performers bringing unexpected experiments, gravity defying stunts and bubble magic to the crowd
• Nature-focused activities exploring ecosystems, wildlife, and the environment
• STEM challenges that puzzle, provoke, and inspire

Beyond the scientific spectacle, families can soak up the atmosphere with street food stalls, picnic areas, lush gardens, the Cork Public Museum, a huge playground, and on-site facilities, making it the perfect place for an exciting, educational, and entertaining day out.

Cork Carnival of Science is dedicated to making science accessible, engaging, and inclusive. Sign language interpretation will be available at live shows, and a quiet zone near the Sky Garden will provide a calm space for those who prefer a less sensory-stimulating environment.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Dan Boyle, welcomed the return of the festival, stating: “The Cork Carnival of Science is a fantastic way to get young people excited about STEM in a fun, hands-on way. By bringing science out of the lab and into the heart of the city, this event helps spark new ideas, inspire future careers, and showcase Cork as a hub of learning, discovery, and innovation.”

Celine Fitzgerald, interim CEO of Research Ireland, said: “Research Ireland are delighted to support the Cork Carnival of Science under the Discover Programme. Science is about asking questions, experimenting, and seeing the world from new perspectives. This festival brings that spirit to life, offering a unique opportunity for families to engage with science in creative and interactive ways. Whether you’re fascinated by the cosmos, curious about how things work, or just love a good experiment, there’s something here for everyone.”

Mervyn Horgan of Lifetime Lab who oversees the organisation of the Carnival of Science said:“The Carnival of Science continues to evolve, and this year’s event will highlight not only physics, chemistry, and engineering but also our deep connections with nature and environmental science. It’s a brilliant opportunity for all ages to see the magic of STEM in action.”

Be sure to save the date for this unmissable science extravaganza.

For updates, visit corkcity.ie/corkcarnivalofscience or follow @corkcitycouncilofficial on social media. #BelieveInScience