Sponsored by Tata Steel, the free Swansea Science Festival will be held on 3-8 November and is a partnership between Swansea University and the National Waterfront Museum.

Last year’s festival attracted more than 9,000 visitors, with the National Waterfront Museum attracting a record number of visitors during the Family Weekend.

This year’s festival will kick off with the Family Weekend at the Waterfront Museum on 3-4 November, followed by events aimed at people aged 16+ in locations across the city until 8 November.

With over 40 exhibits and hundreds of interactive activities, the Family Weekend will take visitors on a journey of discovery as researchers explore the depths of the sea, land, air and space with events taking place across a series of themed zones. Young visitors and their families will get the chance to experience magic, medicine and mythology, ride a hydrogen bike, hear from BBC wildlife expert Dr Rhys Jones, get on board the RV Mary Anning – Swansea University’s research vessel, code a LEGO robot, and discover whether or not bubbles can be made square.

The festival will culminate on Thursday 8 November with talks, performances and shows on a range of topics, including the dark side of social media, mental health, and Star Wars in the contemporary age. A series of workshops will be held at the LC led by Swansea University experts as they share the findings of their latest research on pregnancy and childbirth.

The renowned author and broadcaster Professor Alice Roberts will delve into archaeology, history and genetics to reveal the amazing stories of three animal species that became our allies.

Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Hilary Lappin-Scott (pictured) said: "The response to last year’s events were amazing and we are now looking forward to making it even bigger and better this year. Families are increasingly looking for educational and amazing things that they can do together, so by bringing our leading researchers into the heart of the community and offering such a wide range of interactive activities, we hope to encourage more pupils to study STEM subjects and inspire the next generation of scientists.”

Dr Laura Baker, Head of Product Management & Development at Tata Steel, said: “I love the Swansea Science Festival, it is a fantastic showcase for all the exciting work being done across the region, in both academia and local industry. The science industries play a major role in the economy of south Wales and anything that raises the profile of science and removes some of the mystique surrounding it can only be a good thing in ensuring the continuing prosperity of the region. Whether young, old, a science professional or total novice, there is something for everyone and a great event for all the family. Tata Steel are very proud to be sponsoring and supporting the Swansea Science Festival and we look forward to the fantastic event.”

The full programme for the Swansea Science Festival is available here. 

Tickets are free but advanced booking is required for workshops and talks.