Bradford Science Festival, produced by the National Science and Media Museum, will be returning this May half term (May 23 – June 4) with an unmissable programme of hands-on experiences and exciting events happening at the museum and across Bradford.

This year’s festival explores how we use science and technology to see the hidden world all around us. Headlining this year is Giant Leaps, an immersive dance installation, while BradLab and STEM City return to explore the amazing science happening in Bradford and the exciting careers available in science, technology, engineering and maths.

For a list of all the highlights not to be missed, follow this guide of what to see and do.

Dance through the galaxies in Giant Leaps

Specially commissioned for Bradford Science Festival, Giant Leaps is an out-of-this-world immersive experience created by acclaimed choreographer Corey Baker. Help to create the first dance in space by throwing some shapes and see how your movements influence the journeys of stars and space dust as they travel through the galaxies.

Travel to the moon and back aboard the Orion spacecraft

Hosted by Future Transformations, watch in amazement and learn all about the secrets of space travel while we recreate the Orion spacecraft that was used by NASA to explore outer space. Afterwards, you can have a go at making your very own Orion to take home.

Find out about the future of money

Join the Bank of England to find out all about money and what gives it value. From feathers and shells to mobile phones, learn about how the way we pay for things has changed over time and what it might look like in the future.

Uncover hidden worlds with the University of Bradford

Learn about microscopic, intergalactic and archaeological hidden worlds with researchers from the University of Bradford.

A great place to take the family this half term

Groove along with Bollywood stars and take flight with an Indian Roller Bird

Join Global Grooves and their beautiful giant puppets to take festival fun to new heights with performances of live drumming.

Learn about the pioneering life of Dr Patricia Bath

Presented by Liberty Arts, hear about the incredible story about the pioneering life of African American ophthalmologist Dr Patricia Bath and her contributions to the field of medicine.

Get moving with Flux Dance

Move your feet and learn all about our solar system in this fun movement workshop from Flux Dance. Recommended for ages 7+.

Discover the world of Ibn Al-Haytham

Learn about the fascinating story of a brave young scientist from 11th century Arabia in this short film from 1001 Inventions. Ibn Al-Haytham embarks upon a quest to uncover ancient mysteries that would change our world forever.

This year’s Bradford Science Festival is one not to be missed as it marks the grand finale before the National Science and Media Museum temporarily closes for a year-long refurbishment.

The festival will come to an end in the museum on 4 June but will be popping up across Bradford through August at WomenZone, SHINE West Bowling, MAPA Cultural Arts Centre and Laisterdyke Youth and Community Centre for even more surprising science and activities.

To book free tickets or for more information, visit the website.

What’s on Yorkshire: Bradford Science Festival is on in May and June half term – family entertainment for all