(Image: Orbie Pullen Photography)
Manchester Science Festival 2024 is a family-friendly extravaganza
· Manchester Evening NewsThe much-anticipated Manchester Science Festival is set to captivate audiences with a diverse array of events and activities to not only educate but to inspire future generations of scientists and innovators.
Produced by the Science and Industry Museum, this year's festival promises an engaging experience for families, blending education with entertainment to create memorable moments both in the museum and at other Manchester locations.
From interactive displays to daily science shows, the festival offers something for everyone. Whether it's through captivating installations like "State of Mind" or hands-on fun in the "Activity Zones" there are numerous opportunities for families to engage with science in meaningful ways.
Here, we highlight some of the most exciting family-friendly events and activities that should not be missed -
State of Mind by Squidsoup
Created by pioneering light, sound and technology artists Squidsoup, State of Mind promises to be a visual and sensory delight. The installation is designed to engage visitors of all ages, with a playful and colourful representation of our digitised world.
Children and adults alike will be fascinated by the interplay of lights and sounds, which create an enchanting sensory experience.
Activity Zones
(Image: Science and Industry Museum)
The festival features several activity zones packed with hands-on experiences delivered by a range of Festival partners from various scientific fields, including robotics, chemistry, and biology.
From sport to space, drumming to volcanoes, visitors of all ages can participate in experiments, build models, and even interact with real scientists. The activity zones are designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for science, making learning fun and accessible.
BBC CBeebies Bedtime Stories
For the younger attendees, the BBC CBeebies Bedtime Stories event is a must-visit. Read by CBeebies House presenters and special guests, this event brings popular bedtime stories to life through engaging storytelling sessions.
The cosy atmosphere and familiar faces provide a comforting environment for children, making it an ideal way to wind down after a day full of exploration.
City Sparks
City Sparks, the museum’s programme of activities co-produced by community partners, will be delivering inspiring experiences at the museum and across Greater Manchester.
An installation from North Manchester-based arts duo Malandra Jacks, in collaboration with Harpurhey peer-to-peer support group Mindful Mums, will create a pop-up immersive experience at Harpurhey Sure Start Children’s Centre exploring the surprising science behind pregnancy, motherhood, and mental health.
Back at the museum, this year’s Young People’s Project is being delivered in partnership with Pinc College (which focuses on creative education for neurodivergent young people). The young artists will create an interactive installation exploring the link between colour and emotion.
Arachnobot
(Image: Tim Davies)
Set to be a crowd-pleaser, the incredible and enchanting Arachnobot combines engineering marvels with biological insights, offering a fascinating look into the world of arachnids.
Children will be thrilled by the realistic movements and behaviours of this giant spider puppet as it roams the Arndale Centre, providing an educational yet entertaining experience.
Evening events just for adults
While the Manchester Science Festival is packed with family-friendly activities during the day, it also offers a range of adult-only evening events.
A thought-provoking talk on AI’s place in space delivered by STEM champion, social entrepreneur and computer scientist, Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE and the UK Space Agency's head of space exploration, Libby Jackson OBE, along with a Cosmic Quiz where you'll be challenged on all things space and artificial intelligence, will give visitors the opportunity to explore the museum after hours.
For those interested in attending these adult-only events or exploring more about the festival's comprehensive programme, visit Manchester Science Festival.
Families planning to attend are encouraged to book their tickets early to avoid disappointment. With such a rich programme of events tailored for all age groups, the festival is expected to draw large crowds.