Spellbinding Science, Magical Experiments and Mind-Blowing Discovery: Cork Carnival of Science Returns This June

The free, two-day Cork City Council festival, funded through the Research Ireland Discover Programme, will once again transform Fitzgerald Park into Ireland’s largest outdoor STEM experience, so families can explore, experiment and discover the magic of science together.

This year’s new shows and experiences will show how science can feel every bit as surprising as magic. Leading the line-up is The Science of Hogwarts from Science 2 Life, a brand-new show that brings audiences into a world where physics feels like spellwork and everyday reactions take on an almost magical quality. Blending storytelling with live demonstrations, it offers a playful and engaging way to uncover the science behind the illusion.

Across the weekend, visitors can expect a packed programme of live performances, interactive exhibits and roaming entertainment, with something to capture the imagination at every turn. RTÉ’s Mark the Science Guy will take to the stage with Science is My Superhero, an energetic, family-friendly show full of experiments, audience participation and plenty of laughs. Meanwhile, physicists from Simply Science will invite audiences to ask What’s The Worst That Could Happen? turning curiosity and experimentation into a lively, hands-on experience.

Sport also comes under the microscope this year, with Science Made Simple exploring the Science of Sport, from balance and movement to the forces at play in everyday games. Over on Discovery Drive, Inspirational Science will bring a theatrical edge with The Circus Science Show, combining tricks, stunts and demonstrations in a fast-paced and engaging performance.

Beyond the main stages, the festival comes to life through a vibrant programme of walkabout performers and pop-up experiences. Visitors might encounter scientists on stilts carrying out experiments mid-air, stumble across balloon-powered math challenges, or follow storytelling sessions that explore the science of flight through rockets and hot air balloons. From buzzing bee-inspired performances to colourful characters roaming the grounds, science will appear in unexpected places throughout the park.

_{Max Buckley (Upper Glanmire, 6), Sam Buckley (Upper Glanmire, 9), Lord Mayor Cllr. Fergal Dennehy, Ted Buckley (Upper Glanmire, 12), Lou Lou Wolfe (Douglas, 9), Mervyn Horgan Lifetime Lab, and Abigail Horgan (Douglas, 9)}

Cllr. Fergal Dennehy, Lord Mayor of Cork said, “Cork Carnival of Science has become a highlight of the city’s summer calendar and a wonderful use of one of our most loved public spaces in Fitzgerald Park. It’s a great example of how Cork City Council supports events that are open, inclusive and genuinely engaging for families. What makes this festival so special is the way it sparks curiosity in a fun and memorable way, particularly for young people, and I’d encourage everyone to come along and be part of it.”

Dr Rachel Iredale, Head of Public Engagement for Research Ireland said, “Research Ireland is proud to support the Cork Carnival of Science through the Discover Programme, as the event makes science accessible, engaging and enjoyable for all. Festivals like this play an important role in broadening interest in STEM, particularly among young people, by giving them the chance to experience science in a hands-on and memorable way. By bringing researchers and local communities together in an open and welcoming setting, the Carnival helps to inspire the next generation to explore and consider futures in STEM.”

A major part of the Carnival’s appeal lies in its hands-on approach, and this year’s Exploration Avenue and Discovery Drive will once again feature an extensive range of interactive stands and activities led by some of Ireland’s leading research organisations, educators and industry partners. From building and problem-solving at LEGO Education stations to exploring marine life under microscopes, designing LED creations in soldering workshops, or stepping inside immersive experiences like the Aquaculture Remote Classroom, young visitors are encouraged to get involved, ask questions and learn by doing.

Sustainability and innovation also feature strongly in this year’s programme. Highlights include the Curiosity Cube from Merck, where visitors can explore the lifecycle of everyday materials and experiment with renewable energy concepts, as well as creative science collaborations such as Living Seawalls, developed by UCC researchers and artists, which showcase how design can support marine biodiversity.

For those who like to get stuck in, the festival’s dedicated activity zone will offer sports-based challenges and games that bring the science of movement to life, while quieter spaces, including a mobile sensory van, ensure the event remains welcoming and accessible for all.

With live shows running throughout the day, roaming performers bringing surprise moments across the park, and interactive zones encouraging curiosity at every age, Cork Carnival of Science continues to offer an open, inclusive space where science can be experienced in a fun, engaging and memorable way.

Whether it’s uncovering the science behind a ‘magic’ trick, building something new, or simply watching an experiment unfold, visitors are invited to step into a world where curiosity leads the way.

For the latest updates and full programme details, visit corkcity.ie/corkcarnivalofscience or follow @corkcitycouncilofficial on social media.

Cork Carnival of Science is a Cork City Council festival, proudly supported by Research Ireland and media partners The Irish Examiner and Cork’s 96 FM.

Contact Details:

• Media and PR:                         Claire Philips                clair@e-t-c.ie                                     
• Content & Programming:         Mervyn Horgan             mervyn_horgan@corkcity.ie
• Event Controller:                      Becky Turnock              becky@sworldltd.com