The Science and Industry Museum unveils a dazzling programme of winter discovery

From gaming extravaganzas to engrossing festive science shows, the Science and Industry Museum has unveiled a packed programme of free family-friendly entertainment throughout the winter holidays.

From Sat 14 Dec – Sun 5 Jan the museum’s free Light Lab returns, inviting guests to discover the secrets of light through illuminating activities, special shows and immersive experiences.

A series of fascinating experiments will ensure gloomy days are filled with vibrant colours. Visitors can explore a hall of mirrors, discover how to bend light and even take a dance break in the rave room.

There’ll be guided journeys from the Sun back to the Earth during special science shows led by the museum’s team of expert Explainers — discover how light travels through our atmosphere, explore the science of solar flares and marvel at a mesmerising display of the Northern Lights with NASA footage of the Aurora Borealis.

The Recharge Retreat will offer a peaceful setting for calm during the bustling schedule, inviting visitors to get comfy with a picture book or explore the relationship between colour and mood, and why nature is so vital to our wellbeing.

Power Up, the museum’s action-packed gaming experience offers the chance to play through five decades of video games with more than 150 consoles available to get stuck into. From nostalgic titles like Pong and Pacman to virtual reality missions with Astro Bot, there’s something for all. Power Up is open daily from Sat 21 Dec – Sun 5 Jan (except 24, 25, 26 Dec and 1 Jan).

Delve deep into digestion with the first of the CHRISTMAS LECTURES from the Royal Institution which will be screened live at the venue on Tue 10 Dec ahead of being broadcast on the BBC.

Dr Chris van Tulleken will be delving deep into our guts to reveal the latest science around what happens inside our bodies when we eat. Chris, one-third of the Operation Ouch! presenting trio who were featured in the museum’s hit exhibition Operation Ouch! Food, Poo and You, will reveal how what we eat can have a huge effect on our brains and bodies.

These recordings have been screened at the Science and Industry Museum since 2018, ensuring audiences outside of London have access to the live event, giving an exclusive glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes of such a prestigious programme.

Tash Camberwell, School and Families Producer at the Science and Industry Museum, said: “We’re delighted that our interactive Light Lab is returning for another year to brighten up the winter holidays and it’s bigger and better than ever! There are so many playful, entertaining and insightful experiences to enjoy.

“Whether it’s witnessing the beauty of the Northern Lights, discovering the secrets of colours or exploring hundreds of video games, there’s something for everyone to explore.”

As always, guests can see science in motion in the interactive Experiment gallery, gaze upon mighty machines in the Textiles Gallery and discover world-changing ideas in Revolution. Incredible personal objects from Professor Stephen Hawking’s office are also on display in its highlights area.

For more information about the Science and Industry Museum’s winter programme, and to book tickets, click the button below.