Brought to you by Cork Carnival of Science.

Calling all parents of curious kiddos!

The Cork Carnival of Science is just around the corner, and it’s promising a weekend of epic proportions for the little brainiacs in your life on Saturday, June 8th and Sunday, June 9th, 2024 in Fitzgerald Park.

This free, action-packed weekend lets you dive into the wonders of science with over 45 hands-on activities.

Annabel Ryan and Sara Higgins. Picture: Clare Keogh

Think live science shows under circus tents (weather, water, and the wacky side of science!), mind-blowing experiments, and up-close encounters with creepy-crawlies and furry friends. Build with Lego, race remote-controlled robots, and unravel the mysteries of DNA – all while uncovering the secrets of our planet! It’s a weekend of discovery waiting to be explored.

But with so many activities, workshops, and live shows, it can be a bit overwhelming. Fear not, fellow mamas and papas! We’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to conquering the Carnival with your mini Einsteins.

Gearing Up for Science Fun:

• Dress Code: Comfy clothes and shoes are a must for a day of exploration.
• Be Sun Smart: The Irish weather can be fickle, so pack sunscreen, hats, and raincoats just in case.
• Fueling the Fun: Don’t forget the snacks! While there will be 12 amazing food trucks on-site, it’s always good to have some backup granola bars or fruit pouches.
• Hydration Station: Pack reusable water bottles to keep those little minds (and bodies) hydrated throughout the day.

Must-See Science Stuff:

• Live Science Shows: These are guaranteed crowd-pleasers! From the “Crazy Weather Show” to “Airforce” by the stars of RTÉ’s Home School Hub, get ready for entertainment that educates.

• Microscopic Marvels: This is where the magic happens! Let your kids explore the unseen world with cool microscopes and see tiny creatures come to life.
• Lego Mania & Remote-Controlled Robots: Building block enthusiasts and techie tots will rejoice! This is their chance to unleash their creativity and engineering skills. ️
• Animal Encounters: Get up close and personal with some fascinating creatures thanks to the Animal Roadshow. They might even get to hold a furry (or maybe not-so-furry) friend!

New Stuff This Year!

• “Bee-ology”: A science-circus performance that’s all about the buzz on bees!
• “Discover the Enchanted Bog”: ‘Saérlaith’ is the name given to the skeleton that was found deep in a bog in Roscommon by turfcutters in 2005 and carbon dated to the 7th century. This year visitors can learn about this fascinating ancient discovery and participate in creative writing workshops inspired by it. ️
• “Free Hydro Cells” Research Project: See how UCC is using science to create sustainable energy sources.

Where to Eat

Twelve food trucks will be located near the Rose Garden section of the park, which will have plenty of picnic tables and space to lay a picnic blanket too if you’re bringing your own lunch. On Sunday at 12.30pm, a youth orchestra will perform near the picnic area, adding some extra ambience.

Accessibility is a key focus

To ensure enjoyment for all, and in consultation with the Deaf Community in Cork, provision will again be made by Cork Carnival of Science to ensure sign language interpretation is available at live show performances and for ad hoc requests. They will also have a designated quiet zone in the area near the Sky Garden (where the reflective silver spheres are) which might be useful for young children or those with noise sensitivities.

Bonus Tip: Plan your itinerary beforehand! Check out the full list of activities on the Cork Carnival of Science website so you can prioritize the ones that spark your child’s curiosity the most.

Supported by Cork City Council and Science Foundation Ireland and organised by Cork City Council’s Lifetime Lab @ Old Cork Waterworks Experience, the Cork Carnival of Science is a recipe for a weekend filled with laughter, learning, and unforgettable experiences. So pack your sense of adventure, grab your little scientists, and get ready to be amazed! ✨