Science Week 2025 events in Mayo

Science Week 2025 events will take place across Mayo from November 9 to 16 with this year’s theme entitled ‘Then. Today. Tomorrow.’ The theme encourages people to explore how science and research have shaped and improved the lives we live today, while also looking at the questions and challenges of tomorrow, and how insights from the past can influence our future decisions. Over €847,000 in government funding has been announced to support science week festivals and events.

This year, Science Week is celebrating 30 years of curiosity and collaboration to advance science in Ireland. Circus Science by the Sea Festival 2025, is set to take place as part of this year’s campaign.

Marking its 30th anniversary this year, Science Week is coordinated by Research Ireland and celebrates science in our everyday lives.

More than 10 festivals and events across Mayo will run from November 9 to 16 as part of Science Week, with events for people of all ages.

The events in Mayo are as follows:

Sparks, Circus Science Cabaret, Saturday, November 15, from 3 p.m. to 4.30 p.m., in Westport Town Hall: A dazzling fusion of circus and science, Sparks features a climate clown, juggling doctor, and bubble - ologist performing extraordinary acts with scientific twists. This visually spectacular show combines humour, wonder, and discovery to demonstrate that when circus meets science, anything is possible — an ideal feature for arts and culture coverage.

Achill Island, Basking Shark Fishermen, Saturday, November 15, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., in Westport Town Hall: A moving multi-media event tracing Achill Island’s transformation from shark hunting to conservation. Using film, live traditional music, and archival footage, this performance explores Ireland’s changing relationship with the natural world — offering rich environmental, cultural, and heritage storytelling.

The Unsung Women of Chemistry, Sunday, November 16, from 11 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., in Mulranny Arts Centre: A celebration of the forgotten female pioneers behind the periodic table. Science writer and musician Rebecca Mileham blends song and storytelling in this unique event, bringing to life the stories of women whose work shaped modern chemistry. Ideal for features on women in STEM and Irish creativity.

To get involved and to find out about other events in the area and across the country, please visit here.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, has announced €847,820 in funding to support 14 festivals and hundreds of events taking place nationwide as part of Science Week 2025.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Lawless said: “Science Week is now a key event across Ireland, connecting people with science through engaging activities.

“I am delighted to announce my department’s support for this year’s programme with over €847,000 in funding for 36 projects. Science shapes every minute of our daily lives, from protecting the environment to driving healthcare and technological innovation, and so much more besides. This year’s theme, ‘Then. Today. Tomorrow.’, invites us to reflect on past progress and future possibilities, and, above all, enjoy the experiences. I encourage everyone to get involved and attend one of the many events happening around the country this Science Week.”

Commenting on Science Week, Director of Science for Society at Research Ireland, Dr. Ruth Freeman, said: “For 30 years, Science Week has been sparking curiosity and bringing people together through science. Our anniversary theme of ‘Then. Today. Tomorrow.’ is a chance to both celebrate the endeavours of yesteryear that have brought us to where we are today, and to consider what may lie ahead for individuals, families, communities, Ireland, and the entire planet.

“We’re delighted to see such a wide range of events taking place across the country again this year. The success and appeal of Science Week is due primarily to the creativity and tireless work of local organisers and volunteers. I want to sincerely thank them for making Science Week such a vibrant, nationwide celebration.”