Welcome to Beaker Street Festival — where science, art, music, and ideas collide in the heart of Lutruwita/Tasmania. Whether you’re a first-time explorer or a seasoned science enthusiast, this guide will help you navigate the festival and make the most of your experience.
Beaker Street is a celebration of science and creativity that transforms Nipaluna/Hobart into a hub of curiosity and discovery. Across several days and nights, you’ll encounter fascinating talks by leading scientists, immersive installations, hands-on workshops, live music, and late-night conversations over drinks — all in some of Tasmania’s most speccy environments and hottest venues.
Festival Favourites
Festival Epicentre: The heart of the action, the eye of the storm, the place to be in Hobart’s cultural precinct during the Festival weekend. Check out a mind-expanding mix of talks, music, and scientific merriment at a Headline session at City Hall. Take in an exhibition or discover the science behind the collections at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery after dark. Then drop in to the Roving Scientist Bar at the Hope & Anchor to quench your thirst… for knowledge.
Hobartica: Head down to Hobart’s waterfront, Australia’s Gateway to Antarctica, to find the last outpost before you hit “The Ice.” Like Antarctica itself, Hobartica is a meeting place for international cultures and polar traditions. Dive into Antarctic plunge pools, warm up in Finnish tent saunas, and chat with a phenomenal range of Antarcticans about the science and culture of our southern pole. While you’re there, enjoy a cocktail at the Antarctic Lounge in the Waterside Pavilion.
Field Trips: Escape the daily grind, leave the city behind, and discover the wilds of Tasmania alongside scientists and local legends. You’ll find a range of fascinating new tours and workshops this year, giving you fresh ways to experience Tassie’s natural wonders.
Big nerds names
@Astrokirsten: Superstar Wiradjuri Astrophysicist & Science Communicator Kirsten Banks is back, with a talk on indigenous Astronomy that will blow your mind.
Prof Naomi McClure-Griffiths: She’s one of Australia’s (or the galaxy’s?) leading experts in radio astronomy, so of course we’ve invited her to our Dark Sky Dinner.
Prof Toby Walsh: Your chance to hear about how AI will shape our existence, from one of the planet’s most influential experts.
Robyn Williams: He’s been hosting ABC Radio National’s The Science Show for 50 Years, so we think you should buy him and his partner Dr Jonica Newby a drink. Or at least join them for dinner.
Myf Warhurst: Who better to host the Beaker Street Game Show than a vivacious culture nerd? It’s Myf’s first Beaker Street, so be sure to make her feel welcome.
Michael Hing: Hinger is a geek from way back, and he’s bringing his legendary mix of comedy and curiosity to one of humanity’s most terrifying questions: is AI going to spell the end of life as we know it?
Dr Karl: Yes, of course Karl will be back at Beaker Street! Catch him at his solo shows in Hobart and Devonport, or why not join him for dinner? Expect surprise appearances across the festival.
Top Picks
No one’s getting out of here alive: A joyful funeral, Tasmanian Aboriginal beliefs and rituals around death, and a “best body disposal method” showdown with some of Australia’s leading death experts.
Come again? An evening of sex and science: A pleasure-packed session that’s sure to leave you gasping, moaning, and begging for more.
Seismic Dance Party: Experience the sounds, sights, and vibrations of Antartica’s Denman Glacier in this one-of-a-kind accessible dance party.
Polar Plunge: Dive into an icy Antarctic ritual, then warm up in a toasty sauna tent. Try the coldest pool to earn a collectible Polar Plunge badge, plus bragging rights.
Wurangkili Liwari Nipaluna: Join Pakana (Tasmanian Aboriginal) woman and UTAS Senior Indigenous Scholar Theresa Sainty for an evening of powerful Palawa sky stories on Kunanyi.
After Hours: Kinky, queer, and unapologetically provocative.
Who’s It For?
Everyone. Beaker Street is designed for inquiring minds — no lab coat or science degree required. If you’re into big ideas, fascinating stories, conversations with strangers, and eye-opening experiences, you’ll feel right at home.
Whether you’re a science lover, an art enthusiast, or just someone looking for something a bit different on a night out, Beaker Street is designed to spark your curiosity and feed your imagination — in a welcoming, relaxed, and boring-free environment.
Stay Connected
Follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter to get updates, behind-the-scenes content, and last-minute event alerts.
