Join us for the two weekends of 2023 National Science Week, jam-packed with exciting opportunities for the whole family to engage in activities and events celebrating STEM. From showcasing STEM careers to offering hands-on experiences, demonstrations, and workshops, these weekends promise an unforgettable learning adventure.
Throughout Sydney and regional NSW, there are events in an impressive array of venues, including parks, libraries, museums, galleries, and gardens, where experienced science educators will be on hand to ensure the best learning experiences for everyone. Moreover, passionate scientists and researchers will be present to share their knowledge and enthusiasm for science.
A majority of the events will take place outdoors, offering the perfect setting for the whole family to unwind, enjoy a picnic, and immerse themselves in nature’s wonders.
The best part? These experiences are entirely free! However, due to their popularity, many require advanced booking. Don’t miss out on securing your spot; make sure to register in advance. Remember, these events often book out quickly!
Get ready for the whole family to be inspired, educated, and entertained at the 2023 National Science Week!
SYDNEY EVENTS (in date order)
SATURDAY 12 AUGUST
Play and Explore Day – Georges River Libraries The day will include dazzling displays of polymers in action, radical reptiles, extravagant virtual reality and super solar house craft. Come and experience a range of tabletop discoveries, interactive installations, and opportunities galore to explore. Location: Hurstville Library, Cnr Queens Road and Dora Street, Hurstville More information and bookings
Rhodes Science Fair Back for its second year, the Rhodes Science Fair is a free community event that inspires a fun love for science. Be amazed by the mind-blowing Liquid Nitrogen Show, join an entertaining Robot Storytime, dive into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and learn more about biodiversity, insects and citizen science, and the night-time local ecosystems behind noises in the night! Location: The Event Space at The Connection, Rhodes 30 Shoreline Drive, Rhodes More information and bookings
Science of Nature, Community Open Day at Sydney City Farm For this great new family day at Sydney’s urban farm in the middle of Sydney Park, the focus is on biodiversity, and there will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions as well as learn more about the science of nature in urban areas. Aboriginal educators will also share cultural knowledge of native plants we can grow and nurture. Location: Sydney City Farm, Sydney Park, St Peters More information and bookings
Family Day: Science Part of the Museums Discovery Centre, Powerhouse Castle Hill presents a free family day of demonstrations, talks and hands-on activities focused on themes of Trace. It is a wonderful opportunity to see the incredible array of objects from the Powerhouse science collection, as well see the Mars Rover in action, and get with creative with hands on activities that connect with technology and innovation on display at Castle Hill. Location: Powerhouse Castle Hill, 172 Showground Rd, Castle Hill More information and booking
SUNDAY 13 AUGUST
Science in the Scrub at Western Sydney Parklands Science in the Scrub is returning to Lizard Log Western Sydney Parklands for an exciting day jam-packed full of science, fun and discovery for the whole family. There will be many opportunities to get up close with native animals and get hands on with demonstrations and family-friendly science experiments. There are stage shows for all ages, and a chance to meet real life scientists including geologists, zoologists and marine biologists at multiple stalls and activity stations. Location: Lizard Log Great Western Sydney Parklands, The Horsley Drive & Cowpastures Rd, Abbotsbury More information and bookings
SATURDAY 19 AUGUST
Indigenous Science Experience at Redfern The Indigenous Science Experience at Redfern Community centre is long-running celebration of Indigenous and Western science and technology. This year activities will include yarning with Elders on bush foods and medicines, learning about customarily used seaweeds for environmental sustainability, Indigenous astronomy, cultural performances connecting to the science of sound and movement science, making Aboriginal tools, maths, physics and chemistry activities, and much more.
The whole Community centre is alive all day with activities for young and old, and they encourage you to simply drop in, join in an activity, ask questions and learn. Location: Redfern Community Centre, 29-53 Hugo Street, Redfern More information and bookings
Sydney Science Festival Family Science Day, Parramatta Sydney Science Festival returns to Parramatta for children and families to explore how the Festival theme ‘trace’ applies to the climate, astronomy, health and medicine. There are regular performances on the stage all day; demonstrations from Sydney Water, WSU Solar, Robots and Rovers; drop-in sessions with scientists where you get to ask them questions; and hands on activities that includes an opportunity to paint a nebula, design a 3D printing prototype, build a paper rocket, or craft your own instrument. Location: Parramatta Square, Parramatta NSW More information and bookings
Sydney Science Trail Community Day at the Australian Museum As part of the super Sydney Science Trail, the Australian Museum host a free day of demonstrations, talks, and the Sydney Science Trail Expo full of interactive stalls with multiple organisations and research institutions. There are plenty of opportunities to get hands-on with science and technology. Register for a morning or afternoon session. Location: Australian Museum, 1 William St, Sydney More information and bookings
SUNDAY 20 AUGUST
Sydney Science Trail at Australian Botanic Garden Mt Annan Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan joins the Sydney Science Trail for National Science Week with a day of interactive science talks, demonstrations and shows on stage, outdoor activities and hands-on science fair stalls, open to everyone in the community. Dr Karl make a special appearance, you can visit the National Herbarium of NSW and see the amazing research coming out of the Australian PlantBank or go behind-the-scenes of the Nursery. This is the perfect opportunity to explore the 416 hectares of rolling hills, lakes, lawns and gardens that make up this unique garden. Location: Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, 1 Narrellen Rd Mt Annan More information and bookings
Science in the Swamp, Centennial Park Science in the Swamp returns to Centennial Park for another exciting day jam-packed full of science and discovery for the whole family. Get up close with native animals, chase giant bubbles, dipnet for pond creatures, learn bush survival skills or visit the pop-up ocean lab. Meet scientists and researchers eager to share the excitement of their science at numerous stalls, and ask them questions. Location: Loch Avenue South, Centennial Park NSW 2025 More information and bookings
Saturday 5 August Science Showcase UOW: Open day at Wollongong Campus As part of Open Day at the Wollongong campus, a special Science Showcase provides a STEM zone around ‘Sciences Lane’ buzzing with all sorts of science, including guided tours of different science teaching laboratories and research spaces; Fire & Ice Spectacular Science Shows, presented by the Science Space; a session of guided physical learning with anatomical models for people with low vision or who are blind; inflatable organs display and activity, and much more. More information and bookings
Wyangala In Central West NSW, the CORRIDOR project + Orange Cowra Cabonne Science Hub proudly presents Wyangala, a First Nation culturally led science program on a beautiful property on the Kalari(Lachlan) River for all the family. With a full day and night of workshops, field trips, presentations, and hands-on learning experiences participants can learn about culturally led traditional scientific knowledge, and methodologies, facilitated by First Nation knowledge holders. Drop in for one session or stay for them all. More information and bookings
Saturday 12 August Science Showcase UOW: Open day at Shoalhaven Campus The UOW campus in West Nowra will be transformed into a science activities hub for National Science Week. Activities include: Fire and Ice Spectacular science shows presented by the Science Space: Dragon Training mobile zoo reptile display, including a lace monitor, crocodile, snake, turtle, frogs, and a few smaller lizards: Project Bucephalus Lego robotics building and competition (BYO robot or build one here), with a prize, and more. More information and booking
Saturday 12 August Family Science Day Albury LibraryMusuem is celebrating all things science with a spectacular day of free programs for the whole family. Join them for family-friendly tours of current exhibitions, including Out of This World: Australia in the Space Age, and the Crossing Place Wiradjuri display. Book in for a special tour of the Albury Waste Management Centre. Enjoy some brilliant science play and stick around for the Jollybops Mix it up Science Show. Finally, once the sun sets, rug up and bring the whole family along for a stellar evening of stargazing with the Astronomical Society of Albury Wodonga in QEII Square. More information and bookings
The University of New England (UNE) Discovery team will host two all day events in Armidale over the two weekends of Science Week at the Armidale Farmers Markets and the Armidale Central Shopping Centre. There will be scientists and science educators, lots of activities and three sessions of a brand-new Magic of Physics show that create moments of wonder with awe inspiring displays.
Dark Science returns to the Lismore’s art centre, the Quad, as part of National Science Week for a full day exploration of local science practices through workshops, performance, art, and activities. This all-ages event includes a school outreach and engagement program presenting a series of workshops with local science practitioners, looking at the past to inform the future. In the afternoon the Quad will be open to the public presenting performance, art and a market of local science hubs and organisations. Location: The Lismore Quadrangle, 11 Rural Street, Lismore NSW 2480 More information and bookings
Sunday 20 August Hunter Science Festival This always popular and jam-packed day of STEM activity at Newcastle Museum is back. Make and race your own solar powered car with the team from Hunter Valley Electric Vehicles; climb aboard a Council Garbage truck; pretend to be a poo in the giant inflatable Poo Palace from Hunter Medical Research Institute; or get hands-on with the Aldrin Moon to Mars Experience, including a science show and STEM pocket rocket activity. More information and bookings
Join us for the two weekends of 2023 National Science Week, jam-packed with exciting opportunities for the whole family to engage in activities and events celebrating STEM. From showcasing STEM careers to offering hands-on experiences, demonstrations, and workshops, these weekends promise an unforgettable learning adventure.
Throughout Sydney and regional NSW, there are events in an impressive array of venues, including parks, libraries, museums, galleries, and gardens, where experienced science educators will be on hand to ensure the best learning experiences for everyone. Moreover, passionate scientists and researchers will be present to share their knowledge and enthusiasm for science.
A majority of the events will take place outdoors, offering the perfect setting for the whole family to unwind, enjoy a picnic, and immerse themselves in nature’s wonders.
The best part? These experiences are entirely free! However, due to their popularity, many require advanced booking. Don’t miss out on securing your spot; make sure to register in advance. Remember, these events often book out quickly!
Get ready for the whole family to be inspired, educated, and entertained at the 2023 National Science Week!
SYDNEY EVENTS (in date order)
SATURDAY 12 AUGUST
Play and Explore Day – Georges River Libraries
The day will include dazzling displays of polymers in action, radical reptiles, extravagant virtual reality and super solar house craft. Come and experience a range of tabletop discoveries, interactive installations, and opportunities galore to explore.
Location: Hurstville Library, Cnr Queens Road and Dora Street, Hurstville
More information and bookings
Rhodes Science Fair
Back for its second year, the Rhodes Science Fair is a free community event that inspires a fun love for science. Be amazed by the mind-blowing Liquid Nitrogen Show, join an entertaining Robot Storytime, dive into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and learn more about biodiversity, insects and citizen science, and the night-time local ecosystems behind noises in the night!
Location: The Event Space at The Connection, Rhodes 30 Shoreline Drive, Rhodes
More information and bookings
Science of Nature, Community Open Day at Sydney City Farm
For this great new family day at Sydney’s urban farm in the middle of Sydney Park, the focus is on biodiversity, and there will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions as well as learn more about the science of nature in urban areas. Aboriginal educators will also share cultural knowledge of native plants we can grow and nurture.
Location: Sydney City Farm, Sydney Park, St Peters
More information and bookings
Family Day: Science
Part of the Museums Discovery Centre, Powerhouse Castle Hill presents a free family day of demonstrations, talks and hands-on activities focused on themes of Trace. It is a wonderful opportunity to see the incredible array of objects from the Powerhouse science collection, as well see the Mars Rover in action, and get with creative with hands on activities that connect with technology and innovation on display at Castle Hill.
Location: Powerhouse Castle Hill, 172 Showground Rd, Castle Hill
More information and booking
SUNDAY 13 AUGUST
Science in the Scrub at Western Sydney Parklands
Science in the Scrub is returning to Lizard Log Western Sydney Parklands for an exciting day jam-packed full of science, fun and discovery for the whole family. There will be many opportunities to get up close with native animals and get hands on with demonstrations and family-friendly science experiments. There are stage shows for all ages, and a chance to meet real life scientists including geologists, zoologists and marine biologists at multiple stalls and activity stations.
Location: Lizard Log Great Western Sydney Parklands, The Horsley Drive & Cowpastures Rd, Abbotsbury
More information and bookings
SATURDAY 19 AUGUST
Indigenous Science Experience at Redfern
The Indigenous Science Experience at Redfern Community centre is long-running celebration of Indigenous and Western science and technology. This year activities will include yarning with Elders on bush foods and medicines, learning about customarily used seaweeds for environmental sustainability, Indigenous astronomy, cultural performances connecting to the science of sound and movement science, making Aboriginal tools, maths, physics and chemistry activities, and much more.
The whole Community centre is alive all day with activities for young and old, and they encourage you to simply drop in, join in an activity, ask questions and learn.
Location: Redfern Community Centre, 29-53 Hugo Street, Redfern
More information and bookings
Sydney Science Festival Family Science Day, Parramatta
Sydney Science Festival returns to Parramatta for children and families to explore how the Festival theme ‘trace’ applies to the climate, astronomy, health and medicine. There are regular performances on the stage all day; demonstrations from Sydney Water, WSU Solar, Robots and Rovers; drop-in sessions with scientists where you get to ask them questions; and hands on activities that includes an opportunity to paint a nebula, design a 3D printing prototype, build a paper rocket, or craft your own instrument.
Location: Parramatta Square, Parramatta NSW
More information and bookings
Sydney Science Trail Community Day at the Australian Museum
As part of the super Sydney Science Trail, the Australian Museum host a free day of demonstrations, talks, and the Sydney Science Trail Expo full of interactive stalls with multiple organisations and research institutions. There are plenty of opportunities to get hands-on with science and technology. Register for a morning or afternoon session.
Location: Australian Museum, 1 William St, Sydney
More information and bookings
SUNDAY 20 AUGUST
Sydney Science Trail at Australian Botanic Garden Mt Annan
Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan joins the Sydney Science Trail for National Science Week with a day of interactive science talks, demonstrations and shows on stage, outdoor activities and hands-on science fair stalls, open to everyone in the community. Dr Karl make a special appearance, you can visit the National Herbarium of NSW and see the amazing research coming out of the Australian PlantBank or go behind-the-scenes of the Nursery. This is the perfect opportunity to explore the 416 hectares of rolling hills, lakes, lawns and gardens that make up this unique garden.
Location: Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, 1 Narrellen Rd Mt Annan
More information and bookings
Science in the Swamp, Centennial Park
Science in the Swamp returns to Centennial Park for another exciting day jam-packed full of science and discovery for the whole family. Get up close with native animals, chase giant bubbles, dipnet for pond creatures, learn bush survival skills or visit the pop-up ocean lab. Meet scientists and researchers eager to share the excitement of their science at numerous stalls, and ask them questions.
Location: Loch Avenue South, Centennial Park NSW 2025
More information and bookings
Family Days in regional NSW
(see our full listing of regional events here)
Saturday 5 August
Science Showcase UOW: Open day at Wollongong Campus
As part of Open Day at the Wollongong campus, a special Science Showcase provides a STEM zone around ‘Sciences Lane’ buzzing with all sorts of science, including guided tours of different science teaching laboratories and research spaces; Fire & Ice Spectacular Science Shows, presented by the Science Space; a session of guided physical learning with anatomical models for people with low vision or who are blind; inflatable organs display and activity, and much more.
More information and bookings
Wyangala
In Central West NSW, the CORRIDOR project + Orange Cowra Cabonne Science Hub proudly presents Wyangala, a First Nation culturally led science program on a beautiful property on the Kalari (Lachlan) River for all the family. With a full day and night of workshops, field trips, presentations, and hands-on learning experiences participants can learn about culturally led traditional scientific knowledge, and methodologies, facilitated by First Nation knowledge holders. Drop in for one session or stay for them all.
More information and bookings
Saturday 12 August
Science Showcase UOW: Open day at Shoalhaven Campus
The UOW campus in West Nowra will be transformed into a science activities hub for National Science Week. Activities include: Fire and Ice Spectacular science shows presented by the Science Space: Dragon Training mobile zoo reptile display, including a lace monitor, crocodile, snake, turtle, frogs, and a few smaller lizards: Project Bucephalus Lego robotics building and competition (BYO robot or build one here), with a prize, and more.
More information and booking
Saturday 12 August
Family Science Day
Albury LibraryMusuem is celebrating all things science with a spectacular day of free programs for the whole family. Join them for family-friendly tours of current exhibitions, including Out of This World: Australia in the Space Age, and the Crossing Place Wiradjuri display. Book in for a special tour of the Albury Waste Management Centre. Enjoy some brilliant science play and stick around for the Jollybops Mix it up Science Show. Finally, once the sun sets, rug up and bring the whole family along for a stellar evening of stargazing with the Astronomical Society of Albury Wodonga in QEII Square.
More information and bookings
The University of New England (UNE) Discovery team will host two all day events in Armidale over the two weekends of Science Week at the Armidale Farmers Markets and the Armidale Central Shopping Centre. There will be scientists and science educators, lots of activities and three sessions of a brand-new Magic of Physics show that create moments of wonder with awe inspiring displays.
Sunday 13 August
Science @ the markets
More information
Saturday 19 August
Science @ Central
More information
Thursday 17 August
Dark Science returns to the Lismore’s art centre, the Quad, as part of National Science Week for a full day exploration of local science practices through workshops, performance, art, and activities. This all-ages event includes a school outreach and engagement program presenting a series of workshops with local science practitioners, looking at the past to inform the future. In the afternoon the Quad will be open to the public presenting performance, art and a market of local science hubs and organisations.
Location: The Lismore Quadrangle, 11 Rural Street, Lismore NSW 2480
More information and bookings
Sunday 20 August
Hunter Science Festival
This always popular and jam-packed day of STEM activity at Newcastle Museum is back. Make and race your own solar powered car with the team from Hunter Valley Electric Vehicles; climb aboard a Council Garbage truck; pretend to be a poo in the giant inflatable Poo Palace from Hunter Medical Research Institute; or get hands-on with the Aldrin Moon to Mars Experience, including a science show and STEM pocket rocket activity. More information and bookings
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