Tickets on sale from 28 November!

Get ready! We’re excited to announce that tickets for Norwich Science Festival 2025 will go on sale on Thursday 28 November at 11am - and say hello to your Festival headliners! 

We've been working hard behind-the-scenes to bring you an incredible line-up of events, with a jam-packed programme of family shows, insightful talks and hands-on science fun for all ages.  

From forensics to science fiction and space exploration, Norwich Science Festival 2025 will delve into the science of tomorrow as we explore the question – what does tomorrow hold for us? And how might we shape it, today? 

Join us from Saturday 15–Saturday 22 February 2025, in February half term, as we return to take over the city with an epic celebration of science and innovation. 

Your Festival Headliners 

Drumroll please…🥁 

We’re thrilled to welcome BAFTA-winning wildlife expert Steve Backshall MBE to kick off the first day of the Festival! 

The renowned naturalist, presenter, and author will be joining us for two unmissable events, sharing incredible stories from his remarkable career. 

First, in a family-friendly talk, Learning to Speak Whale (Sat 15 Feb, 3pm), Steve will share his awe-inspiring whale encounters, explore the threats these magnificent creatures face, and discuss how we can all play a role in their protection. 

Then, in the evening (Sat 15 Feb, 7pm), don’t miss a special In Conversation event between Steve Backshall and evolutionary biologist and Norwich Science Festival patron Professor Ben Garrod. Together, they’ll dive into some of Steve’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences and explore the vital conservation work he’s so passionate about, offering a heartfelt tribute to our precious planet. 

Sequins at the ready! The legendary Dame Darcey Bussell will be gracing the stage for a glittering evening of conversation and dance at the Norwich Theatre Royal (Sat 22 Feb). Joined by Dr Peter Lovatt—affectionately known as Dr Dance—they’ll explore the art and science of dance, revealing the transformative role of science in training and uncovering how movement can enhance mental wellbeing. 

Tickets for Darcey Bussell and Dr. Peter Lovatt go on general sale Friday 29 November, at 10am. Book online at norwichtheatre.org

Join bestselling author and geneticist Dr Adam Rutherford for an extraordinary journey through a million years of human history in Where Are You Really From? (Thu 20 Feb, 3pm). You’ll meet kings and queens, Pharaohs and Vikings, as you discover just how far and wide humans have migrated around the world in this fascinating family talk. 

Later that evening, Dr Rutherford returns for a powerful discussion in How to Argue with a Racist (Thu 20 Feb, 7.30pm), in which he explores what modern genetics can and can’t tell us about human difference and dismantles outdated notions of race.  

Tickets for How To Argue with a Racist go on general sale Friday 29 November, at 10am. Book online at norwichtheatre.org

River Cottage’s Rachel de Thample will be giving an exciting hands-on lesson in the art of fermentation at YALM Foodhall (Sun 16 Feb). Learn the secrets to preserve the seasons as Rachel takes you through the science behind various preserving methods. You’ll also have the chance to create your own delicious pickle to take home and enjoy! 

And comedian, presenter and physicist Lieven Scheire will be taking a deep dive into the power of Artificial Intelligence in an unmissable evening at Norwich Theatre Playhouse (Tues 18 Feb). With a unique blend of science and comedy, Lieven will introduce us to this new superhero of technology, as we get a glimpse of how A.I. works, what it can already do, and what it will be capable of in the future! 

Tickets for Artificial Intelligence go on general sale Friday 29 November, at 10am. Book online at norwichtheatre.org

The return of Festival favourites 

We’re excited to welcome back a Festival favourite - the Explorer Dome! Climb inside the planetarium to discover new worlds, and don’t miss the ever-popular Wonder of Space show (Sat 15–Wed 19 Feb).  

It's back for 2025! Join evolutionary biologist Professor Ben Garrod and zoologist Dr Jess French for a live scientific dissection, as they reveal the fascinating inner workings of an animal (Sat 22 Feb). Back by popular demand, Dr Jess and Prof Ben will also go head-to-head in another epic round of Animal Top Trumps! This time, it’s Little Vs. Large as the tiniest critters go up against the world’s mightiest beasts in this fun, family show (Sun 16 Feb).  

And the heart of Norwich Science Festival, The Explorium returns to The Forum, offering a free space to discover, create and experiment with some hands-on science! Back with a brand-new look, The Explorium will be divided into three interactive zones, with new activities and exhibitors to explore every day of the Festival (Sat 15–Sat 22 Feb). 

Book early to avoid disappointment 

With plenty of exciting events for grown-ups and kids alike across eight days, Norwich Science Festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.  

The full line-up of talks, workshops and shows for next year’s Festival will be revealed on 28 November at 11am with tickets on-sale online at norwichsciencefestival.co.uk.

For certain events, you will need to book directly with the venue – please check each event listing on our website for additional information. For events at Norwich Theatre venues, book online at norwichtheatre.org/whats-on from Friday 29 November, at 10am.

Don’t miss out – early booking is recommended to secure your spot! 

You’ll also be able to pick up a copy of the Norwich Science Festival 2025 brochure at The Forum, and get a head start on planning your Festival visit.  

We can’t wait to see you there!