Louth Science Festival Set to Make a Splash in November
Water: From Molecule to Ocean is the theme of this year’s Louth Science Festival, which will take place from 7-21 November.
Delivered by Louth County Council Library Service, Louth Science Festival will feature more than 60 free events in libraries and community spaces across the county.
Town Scientist, Dr Niamh Shaw; Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council; David Conway, Chief Executive, Louth County Council; and County Librarian, Amanda Branigan launched the Festival at Ardee Library, showcasing a programme that will explore this year's theme through a diverse range of talks, workshops, hands-on activities and family events.
Recognised as one of the county's leading annual learning and cultural events, Louth Science Festival brings together libraries, schools, third-level institutions, families, researchers, artists and community organisations to celebrate science in engaging and accessible ways. The festival is supported by Research Ireland and the Creative Ireland Programme.
The theme, Water: From Molecule to Ocean, invites people of all ages to explore the vital role water plays in our everyday lives, our health, our environment and our future. Through interactive experiences and creative events, audiences will discover the science behind one of our planet's most precious resources.
Speaking at the launch, Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Louth Science Festival continues to inspire curiosity and learning across our county. This year's theme highlights the importance of water to our communities, our environment and our future. I encourage people of all ages to take part in the fantastic range of free events on offer and to enjoy the opportunities the festival provides to explore science."
The festival programme includes events with leading science communicators and experts including Éanna Ní Lamhna, Ken O'Sullivan and Dr Niamh Shaw. The programme also features collaborations with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) through the innovative H2O Heroes Programme, as well as outreach initiatives with Dr Bridget Kearney exploring water science through the creative arts.
A Careers in STEM: Many Paths to an Exciting Future event, supported by Engineers Ireland Northeast Region, will highlight the wide range of opportunities available across science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
A highlight of this year's festival programme will be the Family Science Fair Day at the Dolmen Centre, Omeath, on Sunday, 15 November, from 11am to 4pm. Families can enjoy a full day of free activities including live science shows, giant bubble displays, creative workshops and hands-on experiences celebrating the festival theme of water.
Commenting on the range of events, Dr Niamh Shaw, Town Scientist, said: "Science starts with curiosity, and water gives us countless reasons to ask questions about the world around us. From the tap in our homes to the oceans that surround us, this year's festival invites people of all ages to explore, discover and see the science in everyday life. I look forward to meeting families and communities across Louth as we celebrate learning, creativity and the wonder of science together.”
Amanda Branigan, County Librarian, Louth County Council, added: “Louth Science Festival is all about bringing people together to discover, explore and enjoy science in a fun and engaging way. Our libraries are welcoming spaces where curiosity can flourish, and we're proud to offer opportunities like this festival that inspire learning at every age. While the festival is a wonderful reason to visit your local library, it's only a small part of what we offer throughout the year.
“If you're not already a member, I'd encourage you to drop into your local library and join. Membership is completely free and opens the door to a world of books, digital resources, events, learning opportunities and community connections. Whether you're a lifelong reader, looking to learn a new skill, or simply seeking a welcoming place to explore new ideas, there's something for everyone at your local library."
For further information and booking details, visit www.louthcoco.ie, follow Louth Library Service on social media, or email libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie