Knowledge at your fingertips – Lublin Science Festival 2023

the Lublin Science Festival was initiated in 2004 by the rectors of five key Lublin universities: the Catholic University of Lublin, Lublin University of Technology, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, the Medical University, and the University of Life Sciences, along with the director of the Institute of Agrophysics of the Polish Academy of Sciences. Over the past 19 years, the festival has evolved into the largest popular science event in the Lublin region, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific research and the general public. The festival’s primary objective is to make scientific topics accessible to everyone, whether they are already familiar with research advancements or not. It provides a behind-the-scenes look at the world of science.

The Lublin Science Festival is a unique cultural and scientific event in Poland. Year after year, the event attracts an increasing number of participants, and the city, recognizing Lublin’s academic character, eagerly engages in preparing the programme. This year, as the European Youth Capital, we want to offer initiatives specifically aimed at young audiences. Among our proposals are workshops on entrepreneurship, practical IT, and programming classes, excursions, and meetings at the Town Hall to acquaint young people with the workings of local government. I am convinced that the ongoing collaboration between universities and the city will result in many unforgettable experiences during the event, says Krzysztof Żuk, Mayor of the City of Lublin.

The festival is addressed to a broad audience, including both older and younger individuals. The topics covered relate to the most intriguing achievements in science, and the presented projects involve subjects that cannot typically be addressed in schools due to advanced technologies and demonstrations.
During the five festival days, initiatives will take place at Lublin’s universities and institutions collaborating in the event. On Saturday, September 23rd, the Lubelski Science Picnic is planned at Lublin Trade Fair, where all event co-organizers will simultaneously present their academic offerings.

The festival is a unique opportunity not only to discover the most fascinating scientific and technological achievements but also to meet outstanding scientists and specialists representing various fields. There will also be events related to the ongoing Year of Nicolaus Copernicus. On Wednesday, September 20th, a special lecture titled “A Glimpse into Space” is scheduled, allowing participants not only to get closer to the Polish astronomer but also inviting young festival attendees to delve into knowledge about space and the technological developments enabling its exploration.

The festival programme also includes a special day dedicated to “Artificial Intelligence – Opportunity or Threat?” On Friday, September 22nd, there will be a debate among specialists in the field of AI application and its impact on society, as well as meetings with creators of AI-based solutions. Furthermore, invited researchers from Ireland will discuss positive cyberpsychology. Workshops titled “Creative Creator of the Future: Being Smarter than a Chatbot” are specifically aimed at young people.

Festival’s programme:
September 18th – Grand Inauguration of LSF, Opera Hall, Meeting Center of Cultures;
September 18th-22nd – Presentations and events at Lublin’s universities and institutions co-organizing LSF;
September 23rd – Lubelski Science Picnic, Lublin Trade Fair;
September 24th – Grand Closing of LSF, John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin.