Big names are bringing exciting science to Chelmsford
Chelmsford Science Festival 2026 features a host of fascinating events for all ages
Family Science Day activities at last year's Chelmsford Science Festival
Chris Packham, David Olusogo, Big Manny and Dallas Campbell are among the famous names speaking at next month’s Chelmsford Science Festival, which features a packed programme of talks, hands-on activities and cutting-edge research.
This year’s festival, which takes place from 20-28 October and is organised by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), is themed “Future Worlds: Earth, Space, You” and will explore topics including science, technology, engineering, health, the environment and the arts through a series of 35 free and ticketed events across the nine days.
Among the headline attractions is Sustainable Futures with Chris Packham on Saturday, 24 October, where the popular broadcaster, conservationist and environmental campaigner will explore the challenges facing the planet and the actions needed to create a more sustainable future.
On Tuesday, 27 October, historian, broadcaster and bestselling author David Olusoga will present Future Britain, examining how Britain’s history has shaped modern society and looking at the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Science presenter and author Dallas Campbell will take audiences on a journey through humanity’s fascination with the cosmos in his talk Space Journal: The Art and Science of Cosmic Exploration on Tuesday, 20 October, blending scientific discovery with stories from the history of space exploration.
Popular science communicator Big Manny, who has inspired millions of young people through social media and television, will bring his engaging show Science is Lit to Chelmsford on Thursday, 22 October, demonstrating how science can be entertaining, accessible and relevant to everyday life.
The festival programme also includes expert talks on subjects ranging from sustainable construction and food science to bone health, entrepreneurship, space exploration and the science behind the common cold.
The ever-popular Family Science Days, which were attended by more than 5,500 people in 2025, return on Saturday, 24 October and Sunday, 25 October. The events feature a host of hands-on activities and interactive shows.
New for this year, Playable Worlds is the Chelmsford Science Festival fringe programme exploring the future of gaming, creative technology and digital careers. Through workshops, interactive events and community activities across the city, visitors can discover how games are designed, develop new skills and explore pathways into the creative industries.
This year, 10% of the ticket allocation is dedicated to improving access for underrepresented audiences.
“Chelmsford Science Festival has become one of the highlights of the city’s calendar, bringing together internationally recognised speakers, ARU researchers and members of our local community to celebrate discovery, innovation and learning.
“The 2026 festival offers a rich mix of events covering everything from the future of our planet and advances in health to space exploration, creative technology and entrepreneurship. There truly is something for everyone, regardless of age or background.
“As a university rooted in our communities, we are looking forward to welcoming local residents, schools, families and businesses onto our Chelmsford campus. The Chelmsford Science Festival provides a fantastic opportunity to open our doors, share knowledge and inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators and problem-solvers.”
Professor Roderick Watkins, Vice Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)Since its launch in 2022, Chelmsford Science Festival has grown into one of the city’s largest public engagement events. Last year’s festival welcomed more than 15,500 visitors. More than 400 school students also took part in dedicated STEM workshops, helping nurture a fascination for science from an early age.
Full programme details and booking information is available at: www.aru.ac.uk/events/chelmsford-science-festival