Aberdeen Science Festival, powered by TechFest, is challenging Aberdonians to try something new for their next date night by attending shows in this year's programme.

The festival, which consists of a series of science and technology-themed events across the city, is back to spark curiosity across the city until September 27.

Evening events during the two-week festival, including Café Controversial, Genetics Bingo, Sci-fi Snobbery and Psychology of a Magician, all promise to leave attendees feeling inspired and entertained.

Whether it’s date night with your partner, a night with friends or enjoying quality time with a family member, Aberdeen Science Festival has plenty for adults looking for something new to do.

Aberdeen Science Festival is sponsored by Equinor and supported by joint principal sponsors bp and Shell UK.

Dr Martha Gavan, managing director of TechFest, said:
“This year’s Aberdeen Science Festival programme has something for everyone. No matter your age, interests, or level of science knowledge, we hope there’s a show that piques your interest.”

TV psychiatrist Dr T will headline the festival at The Lemon Tree on Saturday, September 20 with The Aberdeen Memory Show.

Dr T, who is from Aberdeen and is a three-times TEDx speaker and podcaster, will use Granite City landmarks to show audiences how you can train your brain to remember almost anything!

The show uses fun, interactive memory techniques and cutting-edge brain science while teaching guests fascinating facts about Aberdeen’s landmarks and history. 

Dr T began his medical training at Aberdeen Medical School in 2000, specialising as a consultant psychiatrist. He appears as a resident mind expert on TV shows including BBC Morning Live and celebrity shows such as ITV’s ‘Big Brother’, Channel 4’s ‘Can I Improve My Memory’ and the world-first hit show, ‘Scared of the Dark’.

For those with curious minds, Café Controversial brings together researchers from across Aberdeen University to discuss controversial ideas that arise when conducting research. Boundaries will be pushed and assumptions challenged during this talk at The Lemon Tree, which starts at 7pm on September 24.

If you are looking for a fully interactive event to attend, Genetics Bingo at OGV Taproom on September 25 guarantees a fun and competitive experience. You may even learn which of your physical traits are down to specific genetics, such as why you have wet earwax!

A fan favourite at last year's event, Sci-Fi Snobbery aims to settle an argument once and for all – what is the greatest Sci Fi monster of all time? The event on September 20 is hosted by Sci-Fi cynic, Simon Watt, and Star Wars fanatic, Jamie Gallagher, with their differing opinions promising a lively debate.

Donations to support the reopening of The Belmont Community Cinema will be collected during the session.

Finally, discover the magic behind magicians with Dr Matt Pritchard’s The Psychology of a Magician show at The Blue Lamp. This interactive talk on September 27 will explore the secrets of the most jaw-dropping illusions.

Dr Matt Pritchard said:
“I’m passionate about making science accessible to all, so being involved in the Aberdeen Science Festival is a great honour. At my shows, I try to separate the ‘wow’ from the ‘how’ to keep the wonder of science alive while also educating the audience on the methods behind the magic.”

Elsewhere on the programme, there are events hosted across the city for people of all ages and interests, from forensics to technology and space.  

To view the full event programme or to book tickets, visit https://techfest.org.uk/festival/aberdeen-science-festival

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