Dust off your lab coats and bring out your test tubes – the Norwich Science Festival is returning this year for another week of family fun.
The fifth edition of the award-winning festival will run at The Forum from October 24 to 31 - during October half term - after a special 'relaxed day' on October 23, where young people with autism or other special educational needs can experience inspiring science and hands-on fun without the crowds.
Among those set to appear are BBC presenter Kate Humble, neurosurgeon Harry Marsh and UEA's Professor Ben Garrod.
Last year's festival attracted 137,000 visitors and generated around £2.7m for the local economy as more than 340 scientists demonstrated the cutting-edge research taking place in the area.
Themes will include digital technology, physics and space, engineering, material science, health and medicine, zoology and sustainability and the environment, while there will be plenty of hands-on activities for all the family to enjoy.
Natalie Bailey, festival producer, said: "We were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and curiosity of last year's visitors, who attended in astounding numbers and eagerly engaged with inspiring scientists and organisations. We hope this year to encourage new audiences to give science a go and discover the workings of our amazing world.
"We're really pleased to welcome back as sponsors Norwich Accountancy Services, Vattenfall, Briar Chemicals and Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure, and look forward to working with our fantastic partners, venues, patrons and contributors to bring you another week of incredible science fun."
Professor David Richardson, UEA's vice-chancellor, said: "We are delighted to be involved again with the Norwich Science Festival. Bringing to life the research impact of UEA, and our partners on the Norwich Research Park, in the centre of the city is a fantastic way to engage more people in the exciting ways that science can shape a better world.
"With a major UN environmental conference called COP26 taking place in the UK in November, this year's festival provides an opportunity to understand more about how science can provide evidence and research-based solutions for policy-makers and governments around the world."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here