The wonders of science, technology, engineering, the arts and maths are set to be explored at next month’s NI Science Festival with support from Tourism Northern Ireland.
Taking place from 11–22 February 2026, a vibrant programme of events will be held at venues across Northern Ireland, which will includeworkshops, tours, talks and interactive activities for people of all ages.
World-class scientists will discuss cutting-edge research and what the future might hold, while there are also scientific debates, comedy, music and film screenings planned.
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A range of well‑known science communicators and innovators from across the UK and Ireland will be taking part, including aerospace engineer and judge on Netflix’s ‘Baking Impossible’, Andrew Smyth.
Other highlights include a talk on examining Ireland’s historical and cultural relationship with superstition, ‘Escape to the Chateau’ star and sustainability advocate Dick Strawbridge in conversation and a talk by theoretical physicist Professor Jim Al-Khalili on how a century of quantum mechanics has shaped our world and the next frontiers of quantum science.
First launched in 2015, the NI Science Festival has developed into one of the biggest celebrations of science in the UK and Ireland, connecting leading scientists, thinkers and creators with audiences of all backgrounds.
It aims to inspire curiosity, spark conversations and showcase how science shapes the world, from the environment and health to creativity and innovation.
This marks the first year that Tourism NI has supported the NI Science Festival through its International Tourism Events Fund. It supports events that attract significantly high levels of visitors to Northern Ireland, while also generating international media coverage, which helps to showcase the region as a must-see travel destination.
The NI Science Festival is one of 14 events which secured funding through the fund.
It is estimated that the NI Science Festival will attract around 50,000 visitors, with 10% coming from outside Northern Ireland.
Around 600 participants are expected to take part in the various events planned with 3,000commercial bednights (hotel, B&B, guesthouse, self-catering) set to be booked.
It is expected that the event will generate around £1,129,890for the north’s economy.
Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events at Tourism NI, said: “Tourism NI is delighted to support the forthcoming NI Science Festival.
“The festival boasts a host of engaging events across the region with many taking place at innovative venues such as the Seamus Heaney Homeplace and at Armagh Planetarium, which will attract visitors of all ages, outside the peak season.
“With everything from hands‑on workshops, family friendly activities and thought‑provoking talks, the festival is sure to result in unique and inspiring experiences. We wish the organisers every success with the 2026 festival.”
Sarah Jones, Director of the NI Science Festival, said: “We are grateful to Tourism NI for its support through the ITEF. This investment has enabled NI Science Festival to significantly increase our activity this year, delivering events right across Northern Ireland - from Rathlin and Portaferry to Enniskillen and beyond.
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“The funding has allowed us to present an ambitious programme featuring world-leading science communicators, including Professor Alice Roberts and Professor Jim Al-Khalili, attracting new audiences from Great Britain, the Republic of Ireland and overseas.
“The support has strengthened our programme, will increase visitor numbers and overnight stays, and helps to position the festival as a key driver of cultural tourism.”
For further information, please visit nisciencefestival.com
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