Cork Carnival of Science is *the* most enthralling free kids event of summer ’25

Brought to you by Cork Carnival of Science.
Mark your calendars, science superstars.
Cork Carnival of Science is BACK, bigger and better than ever, and taking over the gorgeous Fitzgerald’s Park on June 7th and 8th, 2025.
Dust off those lab coats (or just your comfiest shoes) because this epic two-day festival, brought to you by the brainy folks at Research Ireland and Cork City Council, is turning one of Cork’s prettiest parks into a giant, outdoor science playground.
We’re talking full-on experiments, mind-blowing discoveries, and enough “aha!” moments to last you all summer long.

Lord Mayor Cllr Dan Boyle with Olivia Phillips age 11, Isabel Phillips age 7 from Youghal, Abigail Horgan aged 8 from Frankfield, Cathal Dollery age 5 and Fiadh Dollery age 9 and from Deerpark. Photo: Darragh Kane
With a whopping 75,000 people already in the know from previous years (seriously, it’s HUGE!), Cork Carnival of Science is officially Ireland’s biggest outdoor STEM party. Whether your little ones are obsessed with dinosaurs, fascinated by robots, or just love making things explode (safely, of course!), this is the place to be.
Highlights of this two-day weekend of wonder include:
- Electrifying live science shows in the Circus Top and Stretch Tents
- Hands-on experiments and workshops to test, tinker, and create
- Fascinating exhibits showcasing real-world science in action
- Roaming science performers bringing unexpected experiments, gravity defying stunts and bubble magic to the crowd
- Nature-focused activities exploring ecosystems, wildlife, and the environment
- STEM challenges that puzzle, provoke, and inspire
Beyond the scientific spectacle, families can soak up the atmosphere with street food stalls, picnic areas, lush gardens, the Cork Public Museum, a huge playground, and on-site facilities, making it the perfect place for an exciting, educational, and entertaining day out.
“The Cork Carnival of Science is a fantastic way to get young people excited about STEM in a fun, hands-on way.” said Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Dan Boyle.
“By bringing science out of the lab and into the heart of the city, this event helps spark new ideas, inspire future careers, and showcase Cork as a hub of learning, discovery, and innovation.”
Get ready to dive into everything from the teeny-tiniest particles to the biggest, “wait, WHAT?!” experiments.
For more on the day and the latest exciting announcements, visit corkcity.ie/corkcarnivalofscience or follow @corkcitycouncilofficial on social media. #BelieveInScience.

