Cork Carnival of Science Returns to Fitzgerald Park This June

Cork's beloved outdoor science festival is back this summer, with the Cork Carnival of Science set to take over Fitzgerald Park on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June 2026. Free to attend and open to all ages, the two-day Cork City Council event is again funded through the Research Ireland Discover Programme, and promises to be the largest outdoor STEM experience in Ireland.

This year's programme introduces a host of new shows designed to make science feel as surprising as magic. Headlining the weekend is The Science of Hogwarts from Science 2 Life, a brand-new live show blending storytelling with demonstrations that present physics through a spellbinding lens.

RTÉ's Mark the Science Guy will take to the main stage with Science is My Superhero, an energetic family show packed with experiments and audience participation. Physicists from Simply Science will also take to the stage with What's The Worst That Could Happen?, while Science Made Simple explores the Science of Sport, examining the forces behind balance, movement and everyday games.

Over on Discovery Drive, Inspirational Science brings The Circus Science Show to life through tricks, stunts and live demonstrations. Beyond the stages, walkabout performers will pop up throughout the park, from scientists on stilts to balloon-powered maths challenges and storytelling sessions on flight, rockets and hot air balloons.

Interactive zones, including Exploration Avenue and Discovery Drive, will feature stands led by leading research organisations, educators and industry partners. Visitors can explore marine life under microscopes, try soldering LED creations, engage with LEGO Education stations, or step inside the Aquaculture Remote Classroom. Sustainability also features prominently, with the Curiosity Cube from Merck offering hands-on exploration of renewable energy and materials.

A dedicated activity zone will bring sports-based challenges to life, and a mobile sensory van ensures the event is accessible and welcoming for all visitors.

Cllr. Fergal Dennehy, Lord Mayor of Cork, said:

"Cork Carnival of Science has become a highlight of the city's summer calendar and a wonderful use of one of our most loved public spaces in Fitzgerald Park. It's a great example of how Cork City Council supports events that are open, inclusive and genuinely engaging for families. What makes this festival so special is the way it sparks curiosity in a fun and memorable way, particularly for young people, and I'd encourage everyone to come along and be part of it."

Dr Rachel Iredale, Head of Public Engagement for Research Ireland, said:

"Research Ireland is proud to support the Cork Carnival of Science through the Discover Programme, as the event makes science accessible, engaging and enjoyable for all. Festivals like this play an important role in broadening interest in STEM, particularly among young people, by giving them the chance to experience science in a hands-on and memorable way. By bringing researchers and local communities together in an open and welcoming setting, the Carnival helps to inspire the next generation to explore and consider futures in STEM."

Cork Carnival of Science is supported by media partners the Irish Examiner and Cork's 96 FM. Full programme details and updates are available at corkcity.ie/corkcarnivalofscience.