World Science Festival Brisbane 2021

Overview

Brisbane isn't quite the centre of the universe — but for five days in March, it'll feel that way, especially when it comes to all things science and technology. After 2020's event didn't quite turn out as planned, the city will once again play host to the only Asia-Pacific offshoot of New York's World Science Festival. The short version: prepare to be showered in knowledge.

This year's science extravaganza will take over a lengthy list of local venues between Wednesday, March 24–Sunday, March 28, offering up a hefty list of activities to go along with it. When you're not listening to Dr Karl Kruszelnicki chat about the importance of trusting scientists, you'll be pondering how the very first stars looked, exploring the science of happiness, wandering around a science-inspired art art trail, and hitting up a trivia, comedy and science hub outside the Cultural Centre. Curocity Brisbane also ties into the fest, so you'll be getting the best of two hefty events at once.

Or, you can catch a program of films that explore how the mind works — such as The Babadook, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and Oliver Sacks: His Own Life — then head to the annual turtle hatching session (yes, with real, tiny turtles).

Other highlights include chats about everything from beer, bushfires, the pandemic and spiders to dinosaurs, artificial intelligence and the art of scientific illustrations.

Loggerhead hatchling, World Science festival 2017