British Science Festival

Each year, we bring an inspiring programme of free events to the public over four or five days, bursting with exciting opportunities to get involved in. Our talks, workshops and drop-in events span a diverse range of subjects that encompass science in the broadest sense, promising something for everyone. 

In 2023 the Festival brought over 70 free events to Exeter with our host, University of Exeter. Everyone from astronomers, authors, athletes, artists, comedians to musicians from all over the world descended on the streets of Exeter including mind-bending performances, immersive experiences, and interactive workshops. 

The British Science Festival 2024, will be hosted by the University of East London. The Festival will be held between Wednesday 11 and Sunday 15 September 2024, with events being held on the University’s campus, as well as at venues across the city. 

Each year, the British Science Association provides grants of £1000 to community groups/organisations in the host festival city that work directly with audiences who are traditionally underrepresented and currently not engaged in science activity. We want to empower and support community groups to run their own science activities as part of the British Science Festival, enabling new local audiences to engage with science.  

The British Science Festival 2024 Community Grants Programme is now open! The deadline for applications is 5 pm on Wednesday 8 May. Please visit British Science Festival Community Grants | British Science Association for more information including how to apply.

We are no longer accepting Open Call proposals for the British Science Festival 2024.

Anyone can propose an event and the Festival celebrates science in its broadest sense. We are looking for proposals from individuals, researchers, industry professionals, artists, writers, organisations, charities, academic institutions, and more. 

Festival proposals should be aimed at non-specialist adults (16+) with a broad interest in science. We are looking for events that showcase cutting-edge science, celebrate the latest developments in science and technology and engage their audience in open discussion about relevant issues that affect culture and society. We aim to programme a range of formats from talks to drop-in activities and creative content that challenges perceptions of what science is and can be. 

Find more information here or you can contact the Festival Team at festival@britishscienceassociation.org with any questions. 

We are no longer accepting Open Call proposals for the British Science Festival 2024.