Glasgow Science Festival Turns 20 – And the City Is Invited to Celebrate!
…with so many great kids activities in Glasgow this June.
By Eva Curran
Glasgow is getting ready to celebrate a major milestone as the Glasgow Science Festival returns this June for its 20th anniversary. Running from Thursday 4 June to Sunday 14 June, the festival is set to take over venues across the city with an exciting programme packed full of interactive events, workshops, performances, talks, and celebrations – and the best part? Almost all of it is completely free.
This year’s theme, ‘Cheers For 20 Years’, celebrates two decades of bringing science out of lecture theatres and laboratories and into everyday spaces across Glasgow. Since launching in 2006, the festival has become one of the city’s most unique cultural events. It truly connects people of all ages through science and creativity in ways that feel genuinely accessible and fun. The festival programme is packed with events designed to make science feel interactive. Think immersive exhibitions, hands-on activities for all the family, and even a sustainably powered music festival complete with a ceilidh.
Experience Glasgow Differently
One of the best things about Glasgow Science Festival is how it transforms familiar spaces around the city into places of discovery. Alongside The University of Glasgow, there are events in Kelvingrove Art Gallery, the Botanic Gardens, Riverside Museum, and more. Discovering something new is within walking distance! This year’s Science Festival invites you to experience Glasgow differently. Whether you’re a science enthusiast, someone looking for a unique day out, or simply trying to find affordable things to do in the city, there’s genuinely something for everyone.
For students especially, the festival feels like a brilliant fit for Glasgow. It combines the city’s love of creativity and community with ideas about the future and sustainability. It’s also a reminder of the incredible research happening right on our doorstep. Glasgow’s universities and institutions continue to make major contributions across fields like medicine, climate research, engineering, and social sciences. It’s a great time to celebrate the work of oor Glaswegians!
Inclusivity
The 2026 programme also looks ahead to the future. Asking what the next 20 years of research and technology could look like for Glasgow and beyond. In a time where conversations around AI, climate change, healthcare, and sustainability dominate daily life, festivals like this make those discussions more engaging and accessible to the public. Glasgow Science Festival has always been about making learning inclusive. It is proof that science doesn’t need to stay inside a textbook. There’s a reason that this festival has reached over one million people. Why not come see what all the fuss is about for yourself?
Make some time to explore the huge range of events taking place across the festival this June. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few of my highlights. First up has to be the Planetarium Late Show at Glasgow Science Centre, which is worth visiting for the space alone. Also high on my list is an evening with wildlife filmmaker Jane Smith at University of Glasgow, where she’ll explore the relationship between people and wildlife. Another event that caught my eye is the themed pub quiz at The Clarence. Assemble a team and make a night of it with your friends! And finally, for something a little more wholesome, there’s a free screening of Finding Nemo to celebrate World Ocean Day. Ideal for families, little ones, or anyone wanting a dose of nostalgia.
Onwards and Upwards
So here’s to 20 years of curiosity, creativity, and community! The Glasgow Science Festival runs from 4–14 June 2026 at venues across Glasgow. Most events are free, but some may require booking in advance. Grab your diary and start planning!
