Chelmsford Science Festival is returning this October with more than 30 events exploring everything from space and sustainability to artificial intelligence, health and the science of the human voice.
Now in its fifth year, the festival will take place from 20 to 28 October 2026, with this year’s theme titled “Future Worlds: Earth, Space, You.”
The programme includes talks from high-profile speakers, interactive science events, family activities, workshops and live shows taking place across Chelmsford.
The festival is organised by Anglia Ruskin University in partnership with Chelmsford City Council and Chelmsford For You, with Teledyne sponsoring the 2026 event.
Chris Packham and David Olusoga Among Headline Speakers
A number of well-known names are appearing at this year’s Chelmsford Science Festival.
Naturalist, television presenter and environmental campaigner Chris Packham will appear on 24 October, delivering the festival’s first Shaping Sustainable Futures annual lecture.
On 27 October, historian, broadcaster and bestselling author David Olusoga will explore how history, identity, migration and representation are influencing the Britain of the future.
Astrophysicist Dr Emma Chapman will take audiences on an exploration of what the universe might sound like on 26 October, while Professor Silke Paulmann will look at the science behind the human voice on 21 October.
STEM content creator Big Manny will also appear on 22 October, sharing his journey from biomedical science student to becoming a well-known science communicator on social media.
Space, Harry Potter and Rap Science
Science communicator Jon Chase will host two interactive events during the festival.
Rap Science: Our Space Environment takes place on 24 October, while The Science of Harry Potter follows on 26 October.
Presenter Dallas Campbell will also be appearing on 22 October to explore some of the discoveries that have transformed our understanding of the universe.
His event will feature a wearable replica of Neil Armstrong’s Apollo 11 spacesuit.
Free Family Science Weekend Returns
One of the most popular parts of the festival, the Family Science Weekend, returns on 24 and 25 October.
The two days will feature hands-on experiments, technology demonstrations and opportunities for children and families to meet scientists and innovators.
The Family Science Weekend is free to attend, although advance booking is required for some of the live science shows.
Activities will range from bubble science to AI and robotics, with events designed to make science accessible and entertaining for younger visitors.
Relaxed SEN sessions will also be available on both days, offering quieter periods for families with Special Educational Needs.
Science Events for All Ages
The programme stretches well beyond the main speaker events and includes activities covering health, history, space and family science.
Highlights include Moonshot Fitness: Could Jumping on the Moon Save Your Health? on 20 October, where Professor Dan Gordon will look at what low gravity can teach us about movement, muscles and bone health.
On 23 October, Babies Laugh Out Loud will combine puppetry, music and games with the science behind why babies laugh.
Also taking place that day is The Science of Menopause, a workshop exploring perimenopause and menopause alongside practical information about movement, strength and nutrition.
Essex itself becomes the focus on 26 October with Ice Age Essex, which will explore the county’s prehistoric past with retired geologists Ian and Ros Mercer.
Brainiac Live Comes to Chelmsford Theatre
The festival concludes on 28 October with Brainiac Live at Chelmsford Theatre.
The popular live science show promises experiments, demonstrations and scientific challenges designed to entertain families while bringing science to life on stage.
There will also be a series of fringe events under the Spark! Playable Worlds banner, exploring gaming, technology and creative careers through workshops and activities.
How to See the Full Programme
Chelmsford Science Festival runs from 20 to 28 October 2026, with events taking place at venues across the city.
Some events are free, while others require tickets or advance booking.
Anyone interested in attending can view the full programme and booking information through the Anglia Ruskin University Chelmsford Science Festival website.