The NI Science Festival will run from 11–22 February 2026, bringing a packed line-up of workshops, tours, talks and interactive activities to venues across Northern Ireland, supported this year by Tourism Northern Ireland.

Audiences can expect world-class researchers sharing the latest breakthroughs and exploring what lies ahead, alongside science debates, comedy, live music and film screenings.

A range of well-known science communicators and innovators from across the UK and Ireland will take part, including aerospace engineer and Netflix's 'Baking Impossible' judge Andrew Smyth.

Other highlights include a talk examining Ireland's historical and cultural relationship with superstition, an in‑conversation event with 'Escape to the Chateau' star and sustainability advocate Dick Strawbridge, and a lecture 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 staged in 2015, the NI Science Festival has grown into one of the largest 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 show how science shapes the world, from the environment and health to creativity and innovation.

This is the first year Tourism NI has supported the festival through its International Tourism Events Fund (ITEF), which backs events that draw significant visitor numbers and international media coverage, showcasing the region as a must-see destination. The NI Science Festival is one of 14 events to secure ITEF funding. Organisers estimate around 50,000 people will attend, with 10% travelling from outside Northern Ireland. Approximately 600 participants are expected across the programme, with around 3,000 commercial bednights projected.

The event is forecast to generate about £1,129,890 for the Northern Ireland 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.

"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 more information, visit nisciencefestival.com