Service updates and festive arrangements

FUELLING CURIOSITY: EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC WONDERS AT STIRLING SCIENCE FESTIVAL

The countdown is on for the much-anticipated Stirling Science Festival, which will take place from Wednesday 11–Saturday 14 October.

First published

04 Oct 2023

A female scientist, in a white smock, holds a Petri dish in the air as a child, also wearing a white scientist's smock, looks on. In the background is branding on the wall that reads 'Stirling Science Festival'
There's something for all budding scientists, of all ages, at the Stirling Science Festival.

The city is set to come alive with a vibrant blend of mind-blowing talks, captivating live shows, after dark events and engaging hands-on activities for budding scientists of all ages.

Headlining this year’s programme is Glasgow Science Centre ‘On Tour’ with two days of fun interactive exhibits in ‘Powering the Future’ and ‘FitLab’ at the Tolbooth followed on Friday 13 by two spectacular family friendly live science shows at the Albert Halls.

A GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE OF POWER GENERATION

Future Fuels: This electrifying live show will explore the diverse energy sources shaping our world, from the traditional fossil fuels to the sustainable promise of renewables. Gain insights into how these energy sources can be harnessed to power the innovations of tomorrow. Showtimes: 10.30am, 11.30am and 12.30pm. Tickets: £2 per person or £5 for a family of four.

DELVE INTO THE DISGUSTING DETAILS OF DIGESTION

Disgusting digestion: This fascinating live show follows an engaging journey through the human body. Delve into the marvels of digestion and witness how food travels through the body. Learn about the vital importance of a balanced diet and making healthy choices. Showtimes: 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Tickets: £2 or £5 for a family of four.

Three smiling children undertake a science experiment on a laboratory desk, with wires that suggests involves electrical currents
There are plenty of fun and interactive exhibits at the Stirling Science Festival - and many events are free to attend.

FUN FOR ALL AGES

The festival, organised by Stirling Council and funded by the Scottish Government and EventScotland, also offers a diverse array of free and low cost events over the four days.

Highlights include SmartSTEMs Space Workshops where you can learn about what lies beyond our solar system, code-breaking workshops and using ultra-violet lights to examine the design and security features of our currency before striking (pressing) your own coin.

Grown-ups can delve into folklore, herbal remedies and hidden natural science using storytelling techniques, scents and tastes with Botanica Fabula, explore topics with the University of Stirling such as if human intelligence is different to other animals and find out more about the history of Bridge of Allan’s copper mines.

Two children lie on their backs against a mural of a seabed and hold mirrors in each hand as they smile at the camera.
Stirling will come alive with science and nature over four days from Wednesday October 11-Saturday October 14.

Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Chris Kane, said: “There’s something for everyone at Stirling Science Festival and we know parents will welcome the fact that so many events are free of charge during the October school week holiday.

“Stirling has so many top class venues, from the Albert Halls and Tolbooth to our local libraries, and we’re looking forward to hosting a programme that is packed with exploration, fun and discovery.

“We really welcome the opportunity to encourage local people and visitors to the festival and give curious minds of all ages the chance to interact with the wider world of science and nature.”

FULL LISTINGS

This year’s programme explores a diverse range of topics from the science of play and cocktail alchemy to fossil handling and the science behind becoming an elite footballer. For details of all events and booking information, please visit www.stirlingsciencefestival.org