Bradford Science Festival gets under way tomorrow for a packed four days of magic, modification and (scientific) mayhem.

The events will be spread out across Bradford and are split into events for children and more adult-orientated shows. As many of the children’s shows are part of a pre-arranged schools programme, call the booking number for details of availability.

The adult strand of the programme has a theme of body modification and will look at piercings, tattooing and more, all wrapped up in the general theme of “it’s a kind of magic”.

The Bradford Science Festival also aims to encourage young people to have an interest in science, engineering and technology, but through fun demonstrations of how science works in everyday life.

Councillor Ralph Berry, portfolio holder for children and young people’s services on Bradford Council, said: “Bradford and district has a young vibrant population who have the ability to become the scientists and engineers of the future.

“The Bradford Science Festival was launched last year as part of the legacy of the British Science Festival which visited in 2011. I hope that it will continue to grow and prosper to benefit the children, families and wider community. The fun and exciting nature of the children’s programme will ignite the imagination of all children, raising aspiration and increasing academic attainment and achievement.”

BRADFORD SCIENCE FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Children’s Programme, please call 0845 6522406 for booking.

Creature Features

University of Bradford, October 16, 17, 18

Find out why a snake doesn’t blink and what’s so special about some lizards’ tails.

Get Up and Glow!

University of Bradford, October 16, 17, 18

An interactive demonstration about the science of light, colour and glow sticks.

Magical Science!

University of Bradford, October 16, 17, 18

Presenter Tony will perform a number of experiments, tricks, activities and investigations focusing on forces, materials and senses.

The Magic of...Light!

Bradford College, October 16, 17, 18

Where does light come from and what is the ‘speed of light’?

Science Magic…Magic Science

University of Bradford, October 16, 17, 18

A whole lot of science demonstrations that have been used for conjuring tricks throughout the ages.

The Science of Fireworks!

The Alhambra Studio, October 16, 17, 18

Pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh will demonstrate how science, technology and mathematics are used at firework events.

CinemaMagic

National Media Museum, October 16 and 18

This technology, science and history-based show demonstrates how some of the special effects and optical illusions in filmmaking are created.

CSI Crime Scene Challenge!

University of Bradford, October 16; City Hall, October 17 and 18

Solve an aggravated burglary in CSI forensic style with full kit of white suits, masks and gloves and other forensic science techniques to explore.

Science Tricks and Stunts!

Bradford College, October 16, 17, 18

This show will demonstrate how to skewer balloons with giant needles, defy gravity, read minds and overcome pain using chairs of nails, lasers, optical illusions, flaming torches and osmosis.

Adult programme highlights

Body of Work exhibition

The Emporium of Dreams, Market Street, daily, October 16 to 19, 10am-3pm

A snapshot of anthropology from across the world including live tattooing and henna workshops. Free.

The Science of Print

The Fabric Gallery, Broadway, daily, October 16 to 19, 10am-3pm

The science of print reproduction as it has evolved over the years. Free.

Body of Works

lecture, The Emporium of Dreams, October 17, 7.30pm

A guided tour of body modification with guest speakers including local tattooists, a local doctor and a removal expert. £5 per person.

Gastro Magical

Forster’s Bistro, Centenary Square, October 19, 7.30pm

‘Gastromagical’ evening with sensory surprises a la Heston Blumenthal. Tickets are £30.