Limerick Festival of Science and Ballyhoura Science Week Festival to be held as part of Science Week

SCIENCE Week, the annual week-long celebration of science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) will take place across Ireland from November 10 to November 17, calling on the people of Limerick to celebrate our innate ability to reinvent, rejuvenate and regenerate. 

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.

Regeneration is happening all around us and Science Week provides a chance to explore the endless opportunities for the future, and how the decisions we make today will greatly impact future generations. Some events taking place as part of the Limerick Festival of Science and Ballyhoura Science Week Festival not to be missed include:

Genetic History of the Irish People: University of Limerick, November 12, 1pm - 2pm. In this talk Dr Edmund Gilbert, RCSI, will explore the genetic evidence that tells the fascinating story of the Irish genetic landscape, the migrations that have shaped it, and migrations outwards from Ireland that have shaped our influence in genetics around the world.

A Stroll in the Park: People's Park, November 15, 10am – 12pm. Embark on a guided biodiversity trail and discussion about Regeneration in Limerick City, followed by a trip to the People's Museum with teas and coffees.

Science of Beer: Treaty City Brewery, November 15, 6pm - 7.30pm.  Interactive workshop about the science of beer in the wonderful Treaty City Brewery, with the Mastery Brewer. Tastings included.

READ MORE: Top Limerick craft company to join 200 others and exhibit in 'fantastic' festive fair

Introduction to the Science of Chocolate: Mary Immaculate College, November 15, 1pm – 2pm. An introduction to the science of chocolate with chocolate tastings, by the wonderful Norma. Norma is the owner of Praline - Pastry and Chocolate Shop and a former lecturer in Chocolate and Pastries.

Ballyhoura Science Fair: Croom, November 16, 10.30am - 3.30pm. Featuring a variety of exhibits spanning different STEM fields, visitors to the festival will be actively encouraged to get hands-on and engage with exhibits, talks, demonstrations and all that is on offer through non-formal and interactive education.

Director of Science for Society, Research Ireland, Dr Ruth Freeman, 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 Limerick to get involved, whether by attending local events, engaging online, or sharing experiences with friends and family.”

With fourteen festivals taking place across the country, including Limerick Festival of Science, Ballyhoura Science Week, Science Circus by the Sea Festival, Cork Space Fest, Kerry Science Festival, and 'C’mere Till I Tell Ye' Dublin STEM Festival, there is something for all ages and interests.

For more information on how to get involved and to see the full list of events, workshops and talks across the country, please visit ScienceWeek.ie. You can also follow developments using the hashtag #scienceweek or #regeneration. Most Science Week events are free to join, but registration may be required.