The fifth edition of the Kilkenny Science Festival will take place this year from 10-17  November, coordinated by Calmast, the STEM Engagement Centre at South East Technological University. Collaborating with partners from the arts, culture, industry, and the community, a variety of workshops, talks, presentations, and events will be hosted throughout Kilkenny city and county.

This year’s festival theme, "Regeneration," is interwoven across all events. Local cultural partners such as Butler Gallery, St. Canice’s Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum will host events related to the scientific aspects of their current exhibitions. Health, nutrition, and wellbeing will be explored in several unique ways.

Celebrity chef Edward Hayden, a local favourite, will showcase local artisan food in a culinary show, while dancer and choreographer Cindy Cummins (former UCD Artist in Residence) will demonstrate in a fun, interactive workshop, the fundamental concepts behind the physics of movement and dance. Dore’s Opticians will welcome local school children in to experience their cutting edge technology while O’Sullivan’s Brewing Company on John Street will also host a special pizza and pint night, where their master brewer will explain the science behind crafting the perfect pint! A perennial festival highlight, the Science Week Family Fun Day, will feature Dr. Ken and his Science of the Circus show in the Watergate Theatre. Festival favourite Caroline Ainslie of Bubbly Maths, who will lead a highly interactive session on the science of bubbles—sure to entertain both children and adults alike! Castlecomer Discovery Park will once again set pulses racing with activities on Ireland’s longest zipline.  

In collaboration with Kilkenny Library, the new Mayfair library will also offer a variety of events for people of all ages. Start planning your Science Week now by visiting our website at stemkilkenny.ie.