Hidden Gems
The world’s longest running festival of its kind, the Edinburgh International Science Festival returns from 05-20 April this year, with an exciting programme sure to appeal to all ages. This annual event has seen attendance grow by almost a third in the past three years and it is anticipated that this will rise even further in 2014. It’s easy to see why people are excited about this year’s Festival; with a number of events to choose from that will appeal to gastronomers, cocktail lovers, science enthusiasts and a great selection of family-fun activities, there really is something for everyone to enjoy at the Edinburgh International Science Festival.
You can view the full programme and find out more about buying tickets by visiting the Edinburgh International Science Festival website. In the meantime we have picked five different events sure to get you really excited about this year’s Festival.
GastroFest
A celebration of the science behind food and drink, the talented people behind Gastrofest are primed to show you the scientific significance in culinary experiences. Chefs, mixologists, artisans, producers and scientists come together to demonstrate the inextricable links between food and science. For cocktail enthusiasts, the Molecular Mastery event shares the science behind the art of cocktail making. You can also explore the science of human intoxication at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, where you will find many an experimental treat by venturing down the rabbit hole.
Mini Maker Faire
Following its success at the 2013 Edinburgh International Science Festival, the Mini Maker Faire returns for a second year and promises to be even bigger and better than previous years. The Faire is a celebration oftinkering, championing the right to play around with technology in order to create something of your own. A day-long celebration of creativity and innovation, the aim of the mini makers is to get you thinking about what you could create. With exhibitions, interactive workshops, demonstrations and performances, this event is a must for technology lovers.
Splat-tastic
Aimed at the young scientists amongst us, this interactive workshop teaches children how to design their own slime. Chemistry is at the heart of this event, where the 'Splat-o-Meter' helps scientists in the making test slime’s viscosity and stickiness. Children will also learn about chemical reactions and how the appearance and properties of a component can change when a chemical reaction takes place. A must for inquisitive minded little ones.
Energise!
Suitable for ages 5+, you will be taken on a journey through a giant digestive system as scientists reveal more about how the food we eat has an impact on our bodies. This high-energy event is filled with interactive activities to help to keep you fit and show you what you can do to stay healthy.
LateLab
Billed as part laboratory, part salon, LateLab is for science lovers over the age of 18. A place where grown ups can gather and interact over science, you will find live music, interactive art, inspiring presentations and, of course, science. The Internet of Things that Matter looks at how data changes our relationship with physical things and The Taste of Blue gives you the opportunity to step into the world of the synesthete. This event has proved so popular that LateLab sessions take place right through the year.