(Image: Science and Industry Museum)
Let the Science and Industry Museum brighten up your winter with its festive science calendar
by Ginette Davies · Manchester Evening NewsThis winter the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester is transforming into a hub of discovery, entertainment and education, offering a range of activities perfect for families and anyone with a curiosity for science and technology.
From free interactive exhibitions to ticketed gaming sessions and a fascinating lecture by Dr. Chris van Tulleken, there is something for everyone to get excited about.
Tash Camberwell, school and families producer at the Science and Industry Museum, said: 'We're delighted that our interactive Light Lab is returning and it’s bigger and better than ever. There are so many playful, entertaining and insightful experiences to enjoy.”
Light Lab
(Image: Science and Industry Museum)
From December 14, 2024, to January 4, 2025, the museum's Light Lab returns to brighten up the winter days. This free family-friendly interactive exhibit is designed to captivate all ages with its exploration of light and color.
Visitors can:
- Explore a Hall of Mirrors: Delve into the fascinating world of reflections and refractions.
- Bend Light: Participate in hands-on experiments that demonstrate how light behaves.
- Dance in the Rave Room: Enjoy a vibrant space where music and lights create an immersive experience.
Plus, the fun continues across the museum with more illuminating activities.
- Science shows: Led by expert explainers, these shows will take you on a journey from the Sun back to Earth, exploring how light travels through our atmosphere and the science behind solar flares. Marvel at NASA footage of the Aurora Borealis for a mesmerizing view of the Northern Lights.
- Recharge Retreat: Visitors can relax in the with a picture book or explore how colour affects mood and health and find out why nature is so important for our health.
Royal Institution Christmas Lecture
(Image: Science and Industry Museum)
On December 10, don't miss the live screening of the prestigious Christmas Lecture from the Royal Institution. Dr. Chris van Tulleken will delve into the science behind our dietary habits, exploring the profound effects food has on our brains and bodies.
Known for his work on "Operation Ouch! Food, Poo and You," Dr. van Tulleken promises an engaging presentation that combines entertainment with cutting-edge science.
‘Enjoy a behind the scenes look at how the lecture is filmed for TV in front of a live audience in the Ri's historic Theatre before it is broadcast on BBC Four and iPlayer between Christmas and New Year.’
Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for children and concessions. Book here.
Power Up
(Image: Science and Industry Museum)
For gaming enthusiasts, Power Up offers an unparalleled gaming experience, where you can immerse yourself in different digital worlds.
Dive into five decades of video games across more than 150 consoles. Whether you're revisiting retro classics like Pong and Pac-Man or tackling modern virtual reality challenges with Astro Bot, there's something for everyone.
This interactive exhibit, is open every weekend and school holiday, is perfect for both nostalgic gamers and new players eager to explore digital worlds. Face off against friends and family in multiplayer showdowns, rediscover your childhood favourites and unlock new memories together.
Power Up day passes are available for £8, with annual passes priced at £15. While entry to the museum is free, it's advisable to book tickets online or via phone to secure your spot.
Don't miss the Experiment
Play and explore science in action in Experiment, a free interactive gallery designed for the whole family to enjoy together.
Test your senses and flex your superpowers. See through walls, find out how you can shake hands with yourself and discover whether you're strong enough to lift a car with one hand. Build sturdy bridges and tall towers, make music with your body, play songs on musical pipes and get creative with glow-in-the-dark art and more.
Additional attractions
Despite ongoing restoration work at the museum, there are still plenty of exhibits to explore including an interactive gallery where you can see science in action with hands-on activities and the textiles gallery where you can meet mighty machines that revolutionised industry.
Don't miss Experiment
Play and explore science in action in Experiment, a free interactive gallery designed for the whole family to enjoy together.
Test your senses and flex your superpowers. See through walls, find out how you can shake hands with yourself and discover whether you're strong enough to lift a car with one hand. Build sturdy bridges and tall towers, make music with your body, play songs on musical pipes and get creative with glow-in-the-dark art and more.