Photo: Courtesy of BAST

 
The 14th Beijing Science Festival, in conjunction with the 2024 Beijing National Science Popularization Day, will illuminate the city from September 15 to 25. Hosted by the Beijing Association for Science and Technology (BAST), this year's event will take place across six key venues, offering an engaging and interactive science experience for everyone.

The main venue, the Beijing Science Center, will feature four major areas with themes including “Scientist Spirit,” “Technology and Culture,” “Science Education,” and “Science Experience.” A standout exhibit will be dedicated to the spirit of scientists. Spanning 1,200 square meters and opening on September 15, this exhibition aims to inspire patriotism and national pride through the stories of past and present scientists.

Another key highlight will be the exhibition on technologies along Beijing's Central Axis, recently inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July. This exhibit will explore the history of science and technology in Beijing, catering to audiences of all ages. Additionally, interactive experiences will focus on traditional architecture and cultural crafts, immersing attendees in China's rich heritage.

The Science Education area will target youth with over 200 engaging programs, including workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities. The Science Popularization Experience area will use outdoor spaces to spotlight topics such as deep-earth exploration, marine resources, cybersecurity, commercial aerospace, and artificial intelligence.

Five auxiliary locations will host specialized events: the National Natural History Museum of China, the China Railway Museum, Temple of Heaven Park, Gulou Community, and Shougang Park. These sites will offer unique activities such as bird-watching on the Central Axis, painting traditional architectural designs, and exploring the evolution of timekeeping technologies from ancient sundials to modern atomic clocks.

According to BAST, the festival will feature over 600 science exhibitions, lectures, and other activities. More than 1,000 science-related venues will host science activities, exhibitions, and lectures. Additionally, all 16 districts of Beijing will organize regional main events for National Science Popularization Day.