Dive Into Hull's Colliderfest 2026: Science, Art, and Fun for All Ages!

Hull is preparing for the return of Colliderfest in 2026, a festival that celebrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths, also known as STEAM. The event will take place in Hull city centre from 12 to 15 March and will offer a wide range of activities for families and people of all ages. Colliderfest is organized by Hull City Council and the University of Hull, with help from Hull Museums and The Deep. The festival will feature performances, talks, and art installations, making it a unique experience for everyone. One of the main highlights will be an evening with Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, a well-known space scientist and TV presenter. She will share her passion for science and inspire the audience with her stories.

Last year, Colliderfest was a huge success, with a giant puppet touring Hull’s landmarks and attracting large crowds. This year, the festival promises even more excitement. Visitors can take part in e-gaming, build model wind turbines, print 3D bees, and make arrows. There will also be a large light and sound installation in the city centre, as well as a street-theatre show featuring a 13-foot-tall sea creature puppet. Professor Mark Lorch, the festival director from the University of Hull, describes Colliderfest as an incredible celebration of science and the arts. He says the event is designed to encourage people of all ages to explore, experiment, and be inspired by STEAM subjects.

The first two days of Colliderfest will focus on events in local schools, giving students a chance to get involved. On the weekend, activities will spread across the city centre, with venues like Hull Museums Quarter, Ferens Art Gallery, The Deep, Federation of Sport, Princes Quay, Humber Street, and the Wilberforce Institute hosting events. A new event called Our City will feature two parades through the city centre, ending in Queen Victoria Square. There will also be a Colliderfest in the Community event at St Matthews Church, where people can try domino computing and Lego activities. Most events are free and do not require booking, but some special shows, such as the evening with Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, a talk with Team GB Olympian Grant Hardie, and the comedy Robo Bingo event, will require tickets. Tickets go on sale on 6 February. Colliderfest 2026 is set to be an exciting and educational event for everyone in Hull.