Big science day returns to Rochdale this June with free family fun

Sunday, 1 June 2025 17:09

By David Murphy

A free event full of hands-on science and art activities will take over Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre on Sunday 29 June

Families in Rochdale are invited to enjoy a full day of science, creativity and fun at the Rochdale Science Extravaganza 2025. The free event runs from 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sunday 29 June at Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre.

There will be live science shows, a planetarium, and activities for all ages. Visitors can try out science experiments, create recycled art, talk to scientists, and learn more about the world around them.

The event is run by Rochdale Science Initiative, a local group started by Mohammed Rahman in 2017. He was inspired by his son’s love for science and wanted to bring a festival like the Manchester Science Festival to Rochdale. It’s aims to get more young people interested in science, especially those from ethnic minority and working class backgrounds.

Mohammed said: “We want science to be for everyone. It’s great to see so many different families come together to enjoy the event.”

What’s happening on the day?

Live science shows and a planetarium where you can explore space
Fun activities and workshops like making art from recycled paper, coding robots, and testing soil
Green Careers Hub to learn about future jobs in science and the environment
A new sensory room and activities for SEND families, including glowing jellyfish made from recycled materials
Local students showing off their own science projects
Meet real scientists and engineers from top universities and companies

Some of the most exciting stands include:

Real meteorites and 3D printing with Daresbury Laboratory
Superworms that eat plastic with The Worm House Ltd
Heart health demos using real animal hearts
Eco-friendly plant tips from RHS
Robot coding, soil testing, and bat encounters
A film and Q&A on how genetics is changing healthcare

The event is supported by local schools and groups, as well as big names like the University of Manchester, Salford University, RHS, STFC and Rochdale Borough Council.

Organisers say there’ll be plenty of chances to take part, get messy, and learn something new, whether you’re five or fifty.

To find out more, visit facebook.com/rochdalescience or contact Atta Ur Rahman on 07984 638 779