This autumn, a series of free events across the South West is set to inspire people of all ages by showcasing the amazing cultural talent and exciting research that is going on across the region.
Venues in Plymouth, Exeter, Bristol and Bath will host hands-on workshops, fascinating talks and interactive exhibitions on a whole range of topics including climate change, ocean science, AI, the arts and engineering, among others.
It's all part of Futures: A Festival of Discovery, an annual event that began in 2018 and is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
The festival is a collaboration between five academic institutions in the South West: University of Bath, Bath Spa University, University of Bristol, University of Exeter and University of Plymouth.
This region is at the forefront of research in the most pressing issues and forward-looking areas of our time, and whether you have enquiring young minds at home or are looking to get inspired yourself, it's never too early or too late to get involved.
This fantastic free event series is a brilliant way to celebrate the cultural and local heritage of the region, as well as making scientific research alive and relevant to all of us as it shapes our world and the society of the future.
Come along, have fun, and be inspired!
Some events are ticketed, some are drop-in, but all are completely free. Here are some of the confirmed highlights so far:
Exeter Pop Up Curiosity Shop of Science and Culture - Saturday, October 11
Exeter Phoenix, 11am-3pm
A creative space for all ages featuring interactive activities, craft zones and bite-size introductions to diverse topics.
Plymouth Voyage of Discovery - Saturday, October 11
University of Plymouth Main Hall, 9:30am-3:30pm
A family-friendly showcase with hands-on exhibits from ocean science to health tech. A chance to meet the researchers shaping our future in a variety of areas.
Bath Doing Together for the Future - Friday, October 31
Bath Spa Locksbrook Campus, 10am-1pm
A family-friendly event looking at how artists, dancers and designers uncover new ideas and work towards enacting change in areas like urban spaces, habitats, climate change and cultural exploration.
Drop-in workshops for all ages and skill levels - perfect for half-term!
Up Late at the Museum - Friday, September 26
Museum of Bath at Work, 6pm-9:30pm
Join University of Bath researchers after hours to explore the future of employment, work and industry.
Step into the workplace of the future and discover how technology, culture and shifting attitudes could transform the jobs of tomorrow.
Bristol Discovery Talk: Sound Waves - Changing the Soundtrack of the Ocean - Thursday, September 11
Hen & Chicken, 7:30-9:30pm
An adventure into the ocean with Professor Steve Simpson from the University of Bristol, exploring how sound can help reverse climate change impacts on our oceans. This event is in partnership with Altered State.
Day of Discovery - Saturday, September 27
We the Curious, 10am-4pm
A day packed with hands-on activities in medicine, law, engineering, theatre and more. Meet researchers working on pressing questions from climate change to AI.
Online and at home
Futures 2025 also offers online activities so participants can take part from home. Highlights include:
- Do Try This at Home: At-home experiments for all ages
- I'm a Researcher - Ask Me Anything!: Online discussions with researchers via Reddit
- Naturegram: Join naturalist researchers on Instagram as they explore wild places on the Isles of Scilly
Full event listings will be confirmed in the coming weeks. For updates, visit futuresnight.co.uk. Follow on Facebook and Instagram.