The programme for Edinburgh’s 30th Science Festival has been revealed with 270 events for families and adults set to take place over the course of two weeks in April.
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 30th anniversary, there will be hundreds of hands-on activities happening all over Edinburgh. Discover the life, the universe and everything, right here!”
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.
Find out more and plan your visit at https://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/
24
0
20
