Life, The Universe and Everything: Edinburgh International Science Festival

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Life, The Universe and Everything

31 March – 15 April

Edinburgh’s 30th Science Festival will see 270 events for children, families and adults take place across the city over the course of two exciting weeks. And in a first this year, teachers ans their students are being offered a special £5 deal to eighty events through the new #SciFive initiative. 

The Edinburgh International Science Festival celebrates its 30th edition this year with the theme of The Life, The Universe and Everything – in a nod to the third book from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. The Festival will also mark the 200th anniversary of the publication of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley which which will be celebrated through a variety of events delving into the science behind creating a monster and its cultural legacy at a time when we are closer to waking our own ‘nearly human’ AI creations.

It will be staged between 31 March–15 April in venues across Edinburgh, including the Council’s City Art Centre.

Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Donald Wilson, said: “Every year the Edinburgh International Science Festival transforms the city into a celebration of science and technology and 2018 will be no exception. 

“Across the Capital you’ll be able to find fascinating talks with Professors and pioneers, or experiments and events to entertain and educate all ages. The Festival was the world’s first, and remains Europe’s biggest, science festival and for its 30thanniversary, there will be hundreds of hands-on activities happening all over Edinburgh. Discover the life, the universe and everything, right here!”

SciFest 2018

The Festival’s Creative Director, Amanda Tyndall, said: “This year, we will be exploring the theme of Life, the Universe and Everything, contemplating and celebrating the wonder and diversity of life in all its forms, on Earth and beyond, asking where we have come from, where we are going and how science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) can help us sustain our planet for future generations.

“We are delighted that members of these future generations have shaped our programming like never before. Marking Scotland’s Year of Young People 2018 and cementing our commitment to inspiring Scotland’s young people with STEM, Science Festival 2018 will feature events programmed alongside our new Youth Consultation Group, who have worked across content, programming, marketing and design on events including Existence: Life and Beyond at the National Museum of Scotland and the Edinburgh Mini Maker Faire.”

Its vibrant and varied programme include everything from fun family days out to talks and discussions from pioneering thinkers. Family festivalgoers will be able to enjoy six floors of sensational hands-on science at the City Art Centre (sponsored by Cirrus Logic), world class theatre at Summerhall and a host of hands-on activities and more at National Museum of Scotland and other partner venues across Edinburgh.

The exciting adult programme of discussions, workshops, performances, screenings, special events and exhibitions features everything from science themed parties and experimental food events to discussions with leaders in the fields of medicine, space, genetic research, environmental science and data, among others, is set to create unforgettable festival experiences.

The Edinburgh International Science Festival was founded in 1989 as an educational charity that aims to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to discover the world around them. Alongside the annual festival in Edinburgh, the organisation has a strong focus on education and runs a touring programme that visits schools around Scotland throughout the year.

Only £5 for teachers and pupils

Teachers and students can get access to nearly 80 talks, discussions and activities for only £5 with 2018’s Science Festival’s #SciFive offer.

 

The #SciFive offer is open to any registered teacher and students 26 years and under and in full-time education. Be sure to sign up to the mailing list here!

How can I use the #SciFive offer?

After browsing through the events, simply select the #SciFive £5 option in the drop-down menu when booking tickets. Or tell our Box Office you’re eligible for the offer if you’re booking over the phone or in person. Then bring along either student or teacher ID to the designated event, and you’re in!

2018-programme

Find out more and plan your visit at https://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/

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davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer