Brought to you by Cork Carnival of Science. 

It’s the type of weekend gig parents dream of.

If you’ve got a small human with endless energy and an impressive talent for asking questions on repeat, this one’s for you.

The Cork Carnival of Science is back this weekend, taking over Fitzgerald’s Park on Saturday, June 6th and Sunday, June 7th, and it’s shaping up to be one of those rare family days out where everyone actually has a good time.

Running from 11am to 6pm across both days, the free festival, presented by Research Ireland and Cork City Council, turns the park into a full-on outdoor science playground. Expect hands-on experiments, mini “wow” moments around every corner, and just the right amount of safe chaos to keep curious minds buzzing long after you’ve headed home.

With 75,000 previous attendees (yes, it’s that big!), it’s Ireland’s largest outdoor STEM party – whether your mini-me is obsessed with dinosaurs, robots, or just the pure, unadulterated joy of making things fizz.

You might even learn a thing or two yourself.

Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr. Fergal Dennehy pictured with young science enthusiasts Lou Lou Wolfe and Abigail Horgan. Photo: Darragh Kane

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the weekend:

Opening times

The Cork Carnival of Science 2025 will run at Fitzgerald’s Park from 11am to 6pm on Saturday, June 6th and Sunday, June 7th. Entry is free, and attendees are welcome to bring food and drinks.

The weather is anyone’s guess (it is summer in Ireland, after all), so bring sunscreen and a raincoat. Met Éireann is forecasting sunny spells between showers and temperatures of up to 18C across the weekend.

Highlights of this two-day weekend of wonder include:

• Electrifying live science shows in the Circus Top and Stretch Tents
• The Science of Hogwarts reveals the secrets behind some wizarding wonders
• Hands-on experiments and workshops to test, tinker, and create
• Fascinating exhibits showcasing real-world science in action
• Roaming science performers bring unexpected experiments and gravity-defying stunts into the crowd
• Nature-focused activities exploring ecosystems, wildlife, and the environment
• LEGO Education Workshops, where young visitors can build, create and problem-solve through interactive activities.
• STEM challenges that puzzle, provoke, and inspire

Where are the loos?

The public restrooms will be located at the back of the park near the river beyond the café.

Will there be a quiet area?

Yes. Cork Carnival of Science is dedicated to making science accessible, engaging, and inclusive. Sign language interpretation will be available at live shows, and a quiet zone near the Sky Garden will provide a calm space for those who prefer a less sensory-stimulating environment.

Where to eat

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.

Some of the restaurants setting up in the Rose Garden on the day include Farmhouse Roasts, Bo Burgers, Pizza Base, Bad Boys BBQ, Kieths Cones, Crepe Tram, Sultan, Munchies, Dinky Donuts, Bubble Waffle House, The Crepman, Sharon Piper, Candy Rock Lane, and O’Flynns Gourmet Sausage Company.

Will there be water stations for top-ups?

Yes! It’s important to stay hydrated. Free water fill-up stations will be located at the entrance to Fitzgerald’s Park (there is also a First Aid station here) and on Innovation Way near the playground.

For more on the day and the latest exciting announcements, visit corkcity.ie/corkcarnivalofscience or follow @corkcitycouncilofficial on social media.