From October 18-27, the Science and Industry Museum is bringing back the Manchester Science Festival. This year’s festival promises a thrilling lineup of events, interactive workshops, and captivating experiences designed to engage and inspire. Whether you’re a science aficionado or just curious about the latest breakthroughs, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what to expect.
Art Installations
State of Mind (October 18-27 ) | Free
Dive into State of Mind, an innovative installation created by the acclaimed art collective Squidsoup. This immersive experience takes you inside the human brain, using light, sound, and technology to explore how digital media shapes our perceptions. Drawing inspiration from the work of Piet Mondrian, the installation encourages visitors to reflect on the sensory overload that comes with modern technology.
Arachnobot (October 19-20)| Free
Don’t miss the chance to catch the Arachnobot walking around Manchester Arndale. Created by Artistic Director Tim Davies, this giant spider puppet is controlled using a cable skeleton underneath its inflatable body, making its movements seem fluid when being puppeteered.
Daytime Discoveries
Activity Zones (October 18-27) | Free
Discover the world of science through hands-on activities in the Activity Zones. These engaging experiences offer a mix of fun and education for everyone. Here are some highlights:
The Future Pharmacy: Extreme Medicines
Explore medical research with scientists from both the University of Salford and the University of Liverpool. Learn about the potential of tiny viruses in solving antibiotic resistance, while crafting your very own virus and taking a VR journey through the human airways!
‘K-nees’iology
Uncover the science behind football injuries with researchers from Manchester Metropolitan University. Reconstruct a knee model and test different football boots on astroturf to see how science supports professional sports.
Evening Events
In Conversation: Does AI Have a Place in Space? (October 18, 7 pm) | £7/£5
For those interested in the intersection of technology and space exploration, don’t miss Does AI Have a Place in Space?. Join Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE and Libby Jackson OBE, Head of Space Exploration at the UK Space Agency, for an engaging conversation about the potential of AI in navigating the cosmos and solving challenges in space travel.
Cosmic Quiz (October 19, 6:30 pm) | £7/£5
Looking for a fun night out? Gather your friends for the Cosmic Quiz! Test your knowledge of space and AI in a lively competition filled with surprise rounds and pop-up performances. With prizes on the line, it’s a great way to put your brain to the test while enjoying a night of entertainment.
Museum After Hours (October 26, 7 pm) | £10
Join the exclusive adult-only evening at the Manchester Science Festival. Enjoy after-hours access to the State of Mind installation by Squidsoup in the historic 1830 Warehouse, where light and sound create an immersive experience. Be among the first to see new works by Liam Ashworth and Luca Agathogli, presented with Venture Arts. Test your gaming skills at Power Up featuring 50 years of video games, and explore the interactive Experiment gallery.
All evening events will be BSL-interpreted.
Fancy a boozy night out? Enhance your festival experience by pre-ordering an exclusive AI-crafted cocktail or mocktail for these evening events. Choose between the Galaxy Swizzle or Saturn Sparkler for a refreshing twist on your night out.
- Cocktail: Pre-book for £8 (£10 on the night)
- Mocktail: Pre-book for £5 (£7 on the night)
Wines, beers, and non-alcoholic drinks will also be available at the café bar.
What are you waiting for?
The Manchester Science Festival offers a diverse array of experiences that will ignite your curiosity and spark your creativity. So gather your friends and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the world of science!
Book your tickets online here.
