This Cool Kids’ Science Event is Totally Free (And Happening Soon)

Hundreds of families will gather in Merrion Square Park East on the morning of July 2 to take part in a host of free sci-tech and crafts activities. InspireFest kicks off at 10am until 1pm, offering kids a chance to try their hand at a range of cool stuff, while hearing from an impressive roster of high-profile industry speakers. So who'll be there? Only Ireland’s leading tech, maker and science groups such as CoderDojo; Girls Hack Ireland; GameCraft; TOG; Hardie Kids; Coding Grace; TCD Walton Club; Physics Buskers and Dublin Maker. Laptops and equipment will be provided on the day and workshops will range from coding and hardware workshops to interactive exhibitions and games, with an abundance of activities for small kids (7+) and big kids too. Festival founder Ann O’Dea told us:

“Whether you’ve done coding before, or you’ve never touched a computer, we have activities for you to have fun and be inspired. “The event is designed to demonstrate to all kids that science and technology can be creative and fun. As is the ethos throughout Inspirefest, many of the activities will have a particular appeal to young girls but there’s something for every kid and parent here.”

No experience in coding or technology is required and there will be space for drop-ins on the day, but the organisers recommend you register in advance if you have their eye on a particular workshop. You can register for workshops here. ALL under 18s must be accompanied by a guardian at all times. Here's what's happening on the day... GameCraft Unplugged: Ever wanted to create your own game? This fun and creative workshop is suitable for adults and children. There will be some tabletop games for participants and guests to play and get inspiration from. Registration required Girls Hack Ireland: Will host a wearables workshop. Here you’ll find out how electronics, chemistry, computers, engineering and fashion all combine to create “intelligent” clothes. Suitable for adults and children 10+. Registration required CoderDojo & Coding Grace: Coding workshops for adults & children 7+. No coding experience is required, families can learn how to code and develop creative websites and explore technology. Registration required Interactive: Show & Tell Exhibitions Dublin Maker: Makers & Hackers of Dublin Maker will showcase some of their creative inventions. Trinity Walton Club: TWC members aged 13/14 will showcase their STEM projects. TOG Dublin Hackerspace: Tog will have an interactive showcase of their innovative projects. Hardie Kids: Hardie Kids is an interactive exhibition showcasing simple printed circuit board design and assembly. Physics Buskers: ‘Busking performances’ involve interactive experiments and demonstrations selected for maximum engagement, excitement and education.