Thousands Discover the Magic of Science as Cork Carnival of Science Transforms Fitzgerald Park

Fitzgerald Park was transformed into a world of science, discovery and imagination last weekend as thousands of visitors attended Cork Carnival of Science 2026, despite the rain and the event being outdoors 15,000 people enjoyed two great days of free family entertainment, hands-on learning and unforgettable scientific experiences in the heart of Cork City.

Organised by Cork City Council and funded through the Research Ireland Discover Programme, the much-loved science festival returned on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June, once again using the pop up effect of carnival fun in Fitzgerald Park to bring Ireland’s largest outdoor STEM experience to life! Families travelled from across Cork and beyond to explore a packed programme of live science shows, interactive exhibits, creative workshops and roaming performances that brought science to life in fun, accessible and unexpected ways.

Throughout the weekend, visitors young and old immersed themselves in a vibrant programme featuring more than 50 exhibitors and 22 live science shows. Crowds gathered to experience the debut of ‘The Science of Hogwarts ‘brought to the marquee stage by Science 2 Life, where potions, levitation and spellbinding demonstrations revealed the science behind seemingly magical phenomena.

RTÉ’s Mark the Science Guy proved a major attraction with his energetic ‘Science is My Superhero’ show, while providers including Simply Science, Science Made Simple, W5 and Inspirational Science delivered a packed schedule of live performances exploring everything from sport and engineering to chemistry and physics.

Beyond the main stages, Fitzgerald Park buzzed with activity as families explored interactive discovery zones featuring some of Ireland’s leading researchers, educators and STEM organisations. Visitors built and created at LEGO Education workshops, explored marine life under microscopes, experimented with renewable energy concepts inside Merck’s Curiosity Cube, and engaged with hands-on exhibits spanning biodiversity, sustainability, technology and innovation.

Roaming performers added an extra layer of excitement throughout the park, with giant bubbles, balloon-powered experiments, storytelling experiences and science-inspired characters creating surprise moments around every corner. From the youngest visitors taking part in their first experiment to adults rediscovering their curiosity, the festival offered opportunities for all ages to engage with science through exploration, creativity and play.

Accessibility and inclusion remained central to the festival experience, with dedicated quiet spaces, interactive activity zones and a mobile sensory van helping to ensure Cork Carnival of Science remained welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.

Cllr. Fergal Dennehy, Lord Mayor of Cork said, “Cork Carnival of Science has once again shown how science can capture imaginations and bring people together in a truly engaging way. It was wonderful to see Fitzgerald Park filled with families discovering, experimenting and learning together throughout the weekend. Events like this help make science accessible and enjoyable for everyone while showcasing Cork’s commitment to creativity, education and innovation.”

Dr Rachel Iredale, Head of Public Engagement for Research Ireland said, “Research Ireland is proud to support Cork Carnival of Science through the Discover Programme. The festival continues to demonstrate the value of creating opportunities for people of all ages to engage with STEM in hands-on and meaningful ways. By bringing researchers and communities together in such an open and welcoming environment, the event helps inspire curiosity and encourages future generations to explore the possibilities that science and innovation can offer.”

Carnival of Science Organiser Mervyn Horgan said, “Every year we aim to create a festival where science feels accessible, exciting and fun, and the response from visitors this weekend was fantastic. Whether families were exploring the science behind a magic trick, taking part in an experiment, meeting researchers or simply discovering something new together, the enthusiasm and curiosity on display across Fitzgerald Park was incredible. We’re enormously grateful to our exhibitors, performers, volunteers, partners and visitors who helped make this year’s event such a success.”

Cork Carnival of Science forms part of Cork City Council’s long-standing commitment to STEM engagement and public learning through initiatives including Lifetime Lab at the Old Cork Waterworks. By bringing science out of traditional settings and into one of Cork’s most popular public spaces, the festival continues to inspire curiosity, encourage discovery and create memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

Cork Carnival of Science 2026 was presented by Cork City Council, funded through the Research Ireland Discover Programme, and supported by media partners The Irish Examiner and Cork’s 96FM.

For festival highlights and updates, visit corkcity.ie/corkcarnivalofscience or follow @corkcitycouncilofficial on social media.