Science Week is coming to Mayo
SCIENCE Week, the annual week-long celebration of science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM), will take place across Ireland from November 10-17. This year, Science Week will explore the theme of Regeneration.
With hundreds of events taking place nationwide, there is something for everyone - whether you’re passionate about protecting our environment, biodiversity, our future health, or using technology like generative AI in our everyday lives.
The Science Circus by the Sea Festival will take place in Mayo as part of Science Week.
Some events taking place as part of the Science Circus by the Sea Festival not to be missed include:
Desert Bloom: Westport Library, November 16, 11 - 11.45 a.m. Desert Bloom is an interactive storytelling and puppetry show for very young children telling the story of the lifecycle of a beautiful red flower that lives in the Atacama Desert in Chile, South America. This special plant blooms only once every ten years. What does it need to blossom? Using dance, storytelling and puppetry of the insects from the region, Angelica Santander brings this tale alive. Bring your little ones along for a charming, relaxed and interactive performance.
StrongWomen: Westport Town Hall, November 16, 12 - 1.15 p.m. Ever wanted to know how you balance a chair on your chin, if you can juggle liquid, or how circus performers eat fire? StrongWomen Aoife and Maria reveal the scientific secrets behind their astounding tricks. In a fun, lively and fast-paced family circus performance, find out how jugglers, acrobats and hula hoop artists use science to create their amazing acts. Don’t miss this inspiring show about the power of teamwork, science and strong, brilliant women. Join in a short post-show discussion about girls and women in science with the performers and women in STEM.
What Stuff Does: Westport Town Hall, November 16, 3 - 4 p.m. What Stuff Does reveals the mechanics and mysteries behind the art of juggling. With comedy and incredible circus skills, phenomenal performer and research scientist Robin Dale unpacks the mechanics of juggling using flying ping pong bats, disobedient buckets of water and a wrestling match with a flipchart. Prepared to be amazed with a part TED talk, part stand-up comedy, part mesmerising circus act!
Dr. Ruth Freeman, Director of Science for Society, Research Ireland, said: “Regeneration is happening all around us and touches every part of our lives - from how we safeguard our health, to the technology we use, and how we care for our planet. Science Week is a chance to show people what is possible when we use our collective strengths to build a brighter, more sustainable future.
“This Science Week, there is something for all generations, and I would encourage everyone in Mayo to get involved, whether by attending local events, engaging online, or sharing experiences with friends and family.”
For more information on how to get involved and to see the full list of events, workshops and talks across the country, visit ScienceWeek.ie.