Beakerhead is back! Calgary’s brain-busting science spectacle is bigger and STEAM-ier than ever

Brace yourself for an unforgettable STEAM experience. Beakerhead is back, bringing even more spectacular, daring and mind-expanding experiences.  

Beakerhead is where curiosity meets creativity and the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. At the heart of this year’s programming is the unique and powerful partnership between the University of Calgary and Beakerhead. Born from the innovative minds at UCalgary’s Schulich School of Engineering and now a key part of TELUS Spark Science Centre, this festival is not just an event; it's a movement. The collaboration between UCalgary and Beakerhead merges the worlds of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM). 

From Friday Sept. 20 to Sunday Sept. 22, TELUS Spark Science Centre will be taken over by jaw-dropping art installations, futuristic technology and awe-inspiring performances that challenge everything you thought you knew. This year’s event continues to highlight UCalgary’s commitment to STEAM education and its role in shaping innovating programming for Beakerhead.  

The partnership between UCalgary and Beakerhead exemplifies the power of collaboration, not only showcasing the university’s commitment to STEAM education and research, but also providing a unique platform for students and the community to engage in innovative experiences that push the boundaries of knowledge and creativity. 

At this year’s festival, the fruits of this collaboration will be on full display. Expert-led workshops and hands-on installations, developed by the university’s faculties of Arts and Science, plus the Schulich School of Engineering and Cumming School of Medicine, offer participants a chance to dive deep into cutting-edge research in fun and exciting ways. 

Families are invited to attend both evening and daytime events — affectionally dubbed Beaker Nights and Beaker Days. 

UCalgary visionaries take the stage 

On Sept. 22, several speakers representing UCalgary will deliver presentations on some truly exciting, wild, transdisciplinary and inspirational topics curated for all ages. The lineup of speakers includes: 

• Dr. Chenhua Li, PhD’23, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine: Li will present on the misunderstood and fascinating topic of parasites and how and where to find zombie ants in Alberta. 
• Dr. Laura Mazzino, PhD, Faculty of Science: Mazzino will deliver a fascinating presentation on the sun, the music it makes and the potential of a full-blown “Carrington Event.” 
• Dr. Edwin Cey, PhD, Faculty of Science: Cey will provide an interactive overview of the evolution of energy – from the everyday technology all around us to the fantastic possibilities of tomorrow.

You can catch these TED-style talks at the Inspiration Stage at TELUS Spark Science Centre at 10 a.m., 3:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 5:30 p.m. 

Discussing science’s role in everyday life 

On Sept. 22 join Dr. Kristin Baetz, PhD, dean of UCalgary’s Faculty of Science, for a panel discussion alongside Anthony Morgan, host of CBC’s Nature of Things, and Paul Magnuson from Big Art Calgary. This panel, held from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Inspiration Stage will explore the value of science education and science communications and how anyone can see themselves in science.  

Interactive STEAM experiences in the UCalgary Experimentarium 

Curiosity takes centre stage in the UCalgary Experimentarium exhibit with more than 20 interactive installations that blend science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. Designed and delivered by experts from across UCalgary’s faculties, these hands-on experiences invite you to explore the wonders of STEAM. Some of the remarkable experiences include: 

• Extracting DNA from strawberries  
• Watching a methane-sensing robot in action 
• Engaging with AI-generated art 
• Piloting a robotic arm and animatronic dino  
• Learning about and touching a real animal brain 
• Participating in mock archaeological digs at Baby Beakerhead  
• Discovering the science behind bouncing bubbles 
• Painting on a canvas using signals from your brain  
• Observing how blood flows in the body using straws and water 
• Immersing yourself in virtual reality (VR) experiences 

With each installation, UCalgary offers an unforgettable journey into the wonders of learning and innovation in a fun way that’s sure to leave you inspired. This is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Wagonstage at Beakerhead 

The Faculty of Arts’ School of Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA) will offer two performances of their summertime Wagonstage production on Sept. 22 at 1 and 3 p.m. Written by renowned Calgary playwright, Clem Martini, and directed, designed and produced by SCPA students, “Underlings” is a Theatre for Young Audiences presentation that mixes storytelling, music and dance for children of all ages. Created in collaboration with the Office of Sustainability and the Department of Biological Sciences.

Discounted tickets available 

Staff, students and alumni can receive $5 off Beakerhead tickets. Act fast. Quantities at this special price are limited due to the capacity of the event. Don’t miss your chance to take advantage of this incredible discount available for both Beaker Days and Beaker Nights. Purchase your discounted tickets here. 

Volunteer for Beakerhead 

Teamwork makes the dream work, and that dream wouldn’t be possible without Beakerhead volunteers. As a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute your skills, enthusiasm and passion to create captivating experiences that ignite curiosity and inspire innovation. Volunteers will receive an exclusive swag bag, meal/ice cream vouchers, two general admission tickets to TELUS Spark and many more prizes. Learn more and sign up to volunteer.