The CERN Festival Programme: Bringing Science to New Audiences Across Europe
Thanks to the support of the CERN & Society Foundation and the Big Bang Collective, the CERN Festival Programme continues to spark curiosity and excitement through interactive, hands-on science experiences in unexpected places.
By bringing science to music festivals, the initiative connects with audiences who may not typically engage with scientific research—making scientific discovery feel relevant, fun, and accessible. The heart of the programme is the CERN Science Pavilion, a dynamic space where festival-goers of all ages can explore the wonders of science through workshops, demonstrations, and conversations with CERN scientists and communicators.
This creative outreach approach reaches beyond traditional academic settings and inspires interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) among diverse and often new audiences—some of whom may be discovering CERN or particle physics for the very first time.
Launched in 2016, the CERN Festival Programme made its debut at the WOMAD Festival in the UK, where it attracted more than 4,500 visitors over the course of the weekend. Since then, the programme has expanded its reach across Europe.
This summer, you can find the CERN Festival programme at the following events:
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Colours of Ostrava Festival, Czech Republic (16-19 July)
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Sonorama Ribera Festival, Spain (6-10 August)
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Smukfest Festival, Denmark (7-10 August)
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Rototom Festival, Spain (16-23 August)
Whether you're already a science enthusiast or just curious to learn more, the CERN Festival team would be delighted to welcome you. The goal is simple: to make science more inclusive, more visible—and more fun!
Colours of Ostrava, Czech Republic
Held in a former industrial site once home to steel mills and coal mines, Colours of Ostrava transforms this unique backdrop into a vibrant, multi-genre cultural hub. With 16 stages and a reputation for its exceptional atmosphere, the festival offers the perfect setting for the CERN Science Pavilion to engage audiences in science amid music and art.
Sonorama Ribera, Spain
Organised by the non-profit Art de Troya, Sonorama Ribera is one of Spain’s leading summer festivals. In addition to musical performances, the festival boasts a wide variety of cultural and family-friendly activities—short film screenings, wine tastings, children’s shows, and more. The inclusion of the CERN Science Pavilion adds a new dimension to this already diverse programme, expanding the cultural offering to include scientific exploration.
Smukfest, Denmark
Known affectionately as “Denmark’s most beautiful festival,” Smukfest takes place in the scenic beech forest of Skanderborg. While it focuses mainly on Danish artists, it also hosts international names such as this year’s headliner, 50 Cent. The festival mascot—Waltidur Festismuk Kærligkys Ølimund Rockilund Trold—adds to the playful, inclusive spirit that makes Smukfest a memorable experience. Amid the music and festivities, the CERN Science Pavilion bridges the worlds of art, nature, and science, engaging over 60,000 attendees in scientific discovery.
Rototom Sunsplash, Spain
Celebrating its 30th edition this year, Rototom is more than just a reggae music festival. It’s a cultural and social event featuring workshops, debates, art exhibitions, and family-friendly activities. With spaces like the Reggae University and the Social Forum, the festival promotes dialogue on social justice, human rights, and sustainability. Recognised by UNESCO for its contribution to peace and cultural understanding, Rototom is a fitting location for the CERN Science Pavilion—where the frontiers of science meet the spirit of global community
Whether you’re an alum living nearby or planning a summer trip, the CERN Festival Programme is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with CERN in a relaxed, inspiring setting. Come and experience the joy of discovery—and help us spread the word that science belongs to everyone.
Find out more about the CERN & Society Foundation's work here