the-BA : FAQs

Below are some of the more frequently asked questions we receive about the Festival. If there are any other queries than we can help with, please don't hesitate to ask.

What is the BA Festival of Science?
The BA Festival of Science is one of the UK's biggest science festivals, encompassing over 250 events over the course of a week, held at a different location each September. Annually it attracts around 400 of the best scientists and science communicators from home and abroad who reveal the latest developments in research to a general audience.

Where is Festival held?
The Festival is hosted by a different university venue each year, with events also taking place in the city and surrounding area. In 2007 the Festival was held in York, hosted by the University of York. In 2008 the Festival will visit Liverpool, hosted by the University of Liverpool. Additional venues are yet to be announced.

When does the Festival take place?
In 2008, the Festival will take place from 6-11 September. Additional dates are yet to be announced.

What goes on during the week?
The Festival hosts debates, talks, workshops, exhibitions, fieldtrips and more. The programme should be available to search online from mid spring, with the printed version of the programme available from the summer.

How is the BA Festival of Science organised?
The BA (British Association for the Advancement of Science) coordinates the Festival as a whole, with valuable assistance from key partners. The Festival is split into four programmes: main programme, Science in the City programme, Schools Key Stage (KS) 2-3 programme and Schools KS 4-5 programme. Within these programmes, events are arranged by individual organisers.

Who can hold an event at the Festival?
The BA is not prescriptive over who may hold an event within the Festival, but we do follow a strict proposal process to ensure a varied programme is produced and all events are of scientific integrity and appeal to our varied audiences. The proposal process is opened in the spring, 18 months before the Festival, with a closing date in October. Details are posted online.

Who are the events targeted at?
The Festival attracts academics, general public, school groups and families, of all interests and backgrounds. We believe we offer a unique opportunity to interact with an eclectic mix of people engaging in science.

What is the Festival theme?
Each year the President of the BA sets a theme for the Festival, which is the premise of their Presidential Address at the Festival. Our President for 2008 is Sir David King. He has set the theme 'Sustainability through Science'. Some events during the Festival will follow this theme but the BA is not restrictive in its usage by event organisers.

How can I attend events at the Festival?
Each event is listed on our website and in the Festival programme. In the programme, the appropriate audience for each event is listed. Visitors to the Festival are able to purchase individual tickets or book for most events in the Festival programme. Some events are drop-in events. Bookings are schedled to open in mid - late spring.

How much does it cost?
Ticket prices for individual events vary. Some are free, some cost maybe £3, some are more.

Staff and students of the host university are entitled to free weekly passes.

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