What Is Berlin Science Week? Everything You Need to Know

In this article, we explore Berlin Science Week, a thrilling and dynamic international festival, celebrating science and its significance for society.

Oct 30, 2024By Polina Grmanova, MA International Relations
berlin science week city lights
Christmas lighting at the Berlin districts, by Levin. Source: I Love Berlin

 

Since its formation in 2016, Berlin Science Week has become one of Europe’s most captivating events. Over the years, the Falling Walls Foundation and its numerous partners have created a massive annual science fair attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe. For ten days in November, Berlin becomes a major hub for brilliant scientists, researchers, artists, creators, and technology buffs. Many prominent universities, libraries, museums, and individual organizations participate, promoting an exciting and ever-changing interchange of ideas and experiences.

 

Where Does Berlin Science Week Take Place?

Museum fur Naturkunde berlin
Source: Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin

 

The festival connects iconic venues across Berlin, making it an incredible way to explore this bustling city. Among the 80 locations, the two main festival hubs are the Campus and the Forum. The Campus, located in Berlin’s Natural History Museum, serves as the event’s starting point. It offers a two-day program and multiple hands-on activities. The Forum is an exciting fresh addition, held at a hip Holzmarkt Quarter, an area combining art, science, and technology within the urban landscape. The organizers created the Forum of Art and Science to reflect on how art can enhance scientific experiences and bring new ways of learning and discovering out into the wider public. While most of the events are in-person, some are online or even hybrid, offering participation opportunities to a much wider audience. 

 

What Is the Theme of the Event?

berlin science week sara kurig
Berlin Science Week. Source: Sara Kurig

 

This year’s theme, the Common Ground, emphasizes the need for the world to unite to pursue a better future. The goal is to bridge international science communities and make common progress uninfluenced by culture, politics, economies, and religions. Sustainability, inclusivity, and accessibility are the key topics for this year’s festival. Some discussions are about artificial intelligence, while others explore healthcare innovations, the gender gap, and many other topics relevant for today’s society. Berlin Science Week welcomes all curious minds with the expectation that visitors will be respectful and considerate of others. It is essential to keep an open mind while celebrating science, extraordinary thinking, and diversity. 

 

What Is the Format of the Berlin Science Week?

berlin science week Dimi Talen
Berlin Science Week. Source: DimiTalen

 

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Berlin Science Week is a series of diverse events happening across various venues throughout the iconic European city. Participants can look forward to a series of engaging panel discussions, as well as science slams, interactive workshops, live labs, hackathons, networking sessions, virtual reality experiences, exhibitions, and more. The complete program is available on the website, including the many family-friendly events highlighted by a special filter. Most events are bilingual, with presentations in English and German. While many experiences at Berlin Science Week are free, some do require tickets or an advanced registration. Ultimately, Berlin Science Week stands out with its one-of-a-kind events, such as the Robotic Dance Flashmob or the Science of Rave – the last is a closing party, and a fun conclusion to this riveting event.

 

berlin science week cinema
Source: Berlin Science Week

 

Berlin Science Week is a valuable source of inspiration and new knowledge, offering an opportunity to dive into a community of the world’s brightest minds. The festival is also a networking hub for all science lovers, from professionals to those who are just embarking on their science journey. Traveling to Berlin to attend this exciting and diverse festival will not only broaden your horizons, but also fuel your passion for the world’s latest, most innovative new discoveries.

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By Polina GrmanovaMA International RelationsPolina is a passionate freelance writer with an MA degree in International Relations. She loves to travel and enjoys writing about it. Her work experience includes marketing and travel design. In her free time, she reads books on business and psychology and studies Human Design.