Brought to you by Cork Carnival of Science.

Pack for a long day of al fresco fun.

Because once you enter Fitzgerald’s Park this weekend for the Cork Carnival of Science, you won’t want to leave until you’ve seen it all.

A free science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) festival, the event attracted more than 25,000 people in 2022 with huge crowds expected again on June 10th and 11th, 2023 from 11am to 6pm on both days.

The park is spacious however and everything is well laid out so you won’t waste any time waiting to see your favourite attractions.

There’s a packed line-up of live science shows in circus-style tents planned, with walk-about scientific entertainers, hands-on workshops, and interactive STEM experiences that will blow kids’ minds.

An inflatable planetarium by the Blackrock Castle Observatory will give everyone the chance to journey into space, while science performers will pop up all around the park doing experiments on stilts, performing tricks with balloons and engaging young minds with some bubby maths fun. 

Fitzgerald’s Park already features a gigantic wooden playground, extensive gardens, the Cork Public Museum and Café so it really does boast everything you need for the ultimate family day out.

Our advice is to bring sunscreen, raincoats, a blanket and snacks to fuel a day’s adventuring in the great outdoors.

Here’s what you need to know before you go:

1. This is a festival for everyone

The programme is full of opportunities for all visitors to follow their curiosity and appreciate the scientific wonders of the world around us.

“Accessibility is a key focus to ensure enjoyment for all and in consultation with the Deaf Community in Cork, provision has been made to ensure that sign language interpretation is available at live show performances and for specific requests,” said Dr Ruth Freeman, Director of Science for Society in Science Foundation Ireland.

2. It’s all completely free

Fitzgerald’s Park will be transformed into a science super park from 11am to 6pm for the weekend with over 45 free science-based activities. Curious kids and fun-loving families can explore, investigate, experiment, and discover the wonders of science for as long as they like on both days, no charge.

3. You are welcome to bring a picnic or visit the street food trucks

If you’re bringing your own goodies to fuel your fun day out, you can pick a spot for a picnic anywhere you like. Over in the rose garden you’ll also find a selection of street cuisine vendors and picnic benches. There are toilet facilities aplenty too.

4. There’s loads of fun for grown-ups

Adding to the festival atmosphere at the Cork Carnival of Science will be Cork’s very own marching band ‘Boolaboom’ and a chance to dance for joy with ‘New Moon Dance Company’ both taking place on the River stage, located near the rose garden.

5. Find a map to make sure you see it all

Make sure to get your hands on the festival brochure on arrival – it includes a colourful map of Fitzgerald’s Park with all the festival attractions laid out alongside the key what, where and when details of shows, workshops, and demonstrations to check out throughout the weekend.

Cork Carnival of Science is supported by Cork City Council and Science Foundation Ireland and organised by Cork City Council’s Lifetime Lab @ Old Cork Waterworks Experience. For more details see corkcity.ie/en/cork-carnival-of-science or stay tuned to social media updates from @corkcitycouncilofficial.