Explosive experiments, fossil finds, flying toilet paper and hands-on science drew thousands to Fitzgerald Park in Cork City last weekend, as Ireland's largest outdoor STEM celebration once again thrilled visitors of all ages.

Cork Carnival of Science 2025, supported by Cork City Council and Research Ireland, took place on June 7th and 8th in the heart of the city, delivering two days packed with scientific spectacle, family fun, and unforgettable learning moments. An estimated 20,000 people attended the free festival, enjoying everything from live experiments and nature-based discovery zones to walkabout science shows and gravity-defying stunts.

Highlights of the weekend included crowd favourites such as RTÉ's Mark the Science Guy with his electrifying Storm Chaser show, the Air Force spectacle by Simply Science, and the colourful chemistry of Bubbling Botanicals by Science 2 Life. Budding palaeontologists brought rocks to be examined at the Fossil Roadshow, while families engaged with over 50 STEM exhibits led by Ireland's top research centres, educators, and scientific outreach groups.

Throughout Fitzgerald Park, visitors explored interactive zones focused on everything from microbiomes and biodiversity to robotics, renewable energy and sports science.

Live science shows ran across three performance spaces and were joined by roaming science performers who mixed bubbles, circus skills, sleight-of-hand and spectacle to wow the crowds. All shows were free, non-ticketed, and repeated throughout the weekend, making it easy for families to join in at their own pace.

Key Statistics from the 2025 Cork Carnival of Science

Over 20,000 people attended across the two days

300 scientists, researchers, performers and volunteers took part

50+ interactive stalls and activities

45 live science shows across multiple pop-up venues, marquees and stretch tents.

13 food vendors and family amenities on-site

€300,000+ economic impact

Commenting on the weekend's success, Carnival of Science Organiser Mervyn Horgan, said: "The Cork Carnival of Science is about sparking curiosity and showing that science belongs to everyone. It's a free, inclusive event that encourages discovery in a way that's fun and memorable - and we're thrilled to see families returning year after year, often attending on both days. This year's event had something for everyone, from bubbling beakers to dancing robots, a bed of nails and prehistoric fossils. We're incredibly grateful to our partners, performers and the public who made it such a success."

Cork City Council has been promoting STEM engagement through a variety of projects ,including Lifetime Lab at the Old Cork Waterworks for over 20 years, with Cork Carnival of Science now established as a cornerstone of that effort. Its unique format - bringing science out of the lab and into the outdoors - ensures that children and adults can explore real-world research in a relaxed and playful environment.

The festival also prioritised accessibility and inclusion, with sign language interpretation at scheduled live shows, and a dedicated quiet zone near the Sky Garden for those needing a break from the sensory buzz.

Cork Carnival of Science 2025 was presented by Cork City Council, supported by Research Ireland.

For updates or to explore highlights from the weekend, visit www.corkcity.ie/corkcarnivalofscience .