From 4th to 12th April 2025, the Poznań Festival of Science and Art returns for its 28th edition, once again transforming the city into a thriving stage for imagination, experimentation and conversation. This dynamic, week-long celebration brings together knowledge-hungry minds of all ages in a vibrant programme that fuses intellectual discovery with artistic creativity.
A Festival Rooted in Curiosity and Collaboration
The Poznań Festival of Science and Art has become a cultural mainstay not only for the city, but for the entire region — drawing thousands of participants who come to see science and art not as separate fields, but as interconnected forces shaping our understanding of the world.
Founded in 1997 through a collaboration between Poznań’s leading universities and the Polish Academy of Sciences, the Poznań Festival of Science and Art was born from a shared desire to make scientific knowledge and artistic expression more accessible to the wider public. What began as a small initiative now includes ten major institutions and offers close to 300 events, continuing to grow in scope and ambition.
Its guiding philosophy is clear: to break down the walls between academia and everyday life. The festival has never been just about lectures or exhibitions — it’s about direct engagement.
Tell me and I will forget, show me and I may remember; involve me and I will understand.
said Confucius, whose words were proudly adopted by the festival.
Embracing the Theme of Responsibility
This year’s festival explores a topic that resonates more deeply than ever: responsibility. In a world increasingly shaped by rapid technological shifts, misinformation, climate concerns and social challenges, the festival organisers felt it was essential to focus on how responsibility threads through education, scientific practice, artistic creation and daily choices.
Responsibility is no longer optional. We want this edition of the festival to encourage people to reflect on the consequences of what we say, create and do — because every action has an impact.
said Marta Grunwald, the festival’s coordinator.
The theme runs through the entire programme, with events touching on sustainability, ethical decision-making, inclusivity in education, and conscious use of technology. It’s a thoughtful reminder that being informed is not enough — we also need to be accountable.
A Rich and Multi-Layered Programme
The 28th Poznań Festival of Science and Art features nearly 300 events, both in-person and online, including hands-on workshops, cutting-edge lectures, artistic performances, interactive installations, and games. The events are designed to appeal to children, teens, adults, and seniors alike, ensuring every visitor can take something meaningful away.
Some programme highlights include:
Opening Ceremony at the Działyński Palace (7 April) – Featuring a keynote by Prof. Michał Bogdziewicz titled “When the Sun Sets the Forest Clock – The Phenomenon of Mast Years,” this lecture dives into the mysterious cycles of tree fruiting and their ecological implications.
- University of Life Sciences (8 April) – Events like “Edible Insects: Myths and Facts” and sessions on soil health, plant biodiversity, and responsible consumption.
- Poznań University of Technology (from 4 April) – Explore how chemistry can be sustainable, delve into mineral wonders of the Earth, or learn how responsible pharmacology shapes future medicine.
- Laboratorium Wyobraźni (9 & 11 April) – In-depth explorations of light pollution, archaeology, and safe digital behaviour make science feel up-close and personal.
- University of the Arts (11-12 April) – The debut of digital sculpture workshops reflects how new technologies are changing art. Other sessions include fabric art, performative actions, and responsible design.
- Academy of Music (8 April) – Music workshops for children and youth titled “Musical Responsibility: Cooperation in Sound,” explore the emotional and social impact of collective music-making.
- Medical University (8 April) – Topics range from addiction awareness and first aid to nutrition, mental health, and the use of robotics in therapy.
Each university adds a unique voice. But what unites us is a shared commitment to making knowledge matter — for individuals and for society.
says Prof. Marlena Lembicz from the Faculty of Biology at Adam Mickiewicz University.
Building Community through Learning
What sets the Poznań Festival of Science and Art apart from other public events is its ongoing impact on the local and academic community. It’s not just a week of fun activities — it’s a model for engaged education. It empowers children, inspires teens to pursue research careers, and reminds adults that learning never ends.
This year also sees the pilot of the inclusive programme “Włączeni w naukę” (Engaged in Learning), dedicated to children and youth on the neurodiversity spectrum. Its aim? To ensure universities become more accessible and aware of diverse learning needs. A guidebook summarising this initiative’s outcomes will be published, offering practical tools for educators across Poland.
Grand Finale: A Musical Journey of Responsibility
The festival closes in style with a special final concert on 12 April at the Aula of the Poznań University of Economics. Two exceptional ensembles — AkoPoznań Accordion Orchestra and the Chamber Orchestra of Adam Mickiewicz University — will perform a programme blending the classical and the contemporary. Expect music by Piazzolla, Brahms, Williams, Zubitsky and Bregović in an unforgettable showcase of sonic storytelling.
Get Involved and Experience It Yourself
If you’ve never attended the Poznań Festival of Science and Art, 2025 is the perfect time to start. Whether you want to discuss AI’s influence on daily life, learn how art can shape urban spaces, or help your children discover the basics of chemistry and biology, there’s something here for everyone.
This festival is more than a celebration — it’s an invitation to question, discover, and connect. Come with an open mind, leave with new ideas.
