Festival Centre Day 3
Science in touch with the world it seeks to help understand.
The third and final day at Haus der Kulturen der Welt (HKW) turns science outward, toward the world it helps us make sense of. Across the programme, science becomes a way of seeing. Look through a telescope and rethink our role in the universe; get closer to the mini creatures outside your door and discover a world you've been walking past; travel back in time with 'Geschichten aus der Geschichte' and discover how the past still shapes today. At every turn, science shows the hidden ways it shapes our world.
Here, researchers and scientists from Berlin and beyond share not just their findings, but the stories behind them: the moments of doubt or failure, the questions that drive their work, and what makes them so passionate about discovery.
This day is for anyone who has ever looked at the world and wondered why: a budding scientist, an everyday wonderer, a child full of questions. Expect a glimpse into the many ways science helps us see. For those already working in or around science, the day offers a chance to share the infectious sense of wonder with others.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Science Up Close: Discover a programme that explores how science shapes the world around us. Your body, the cosmos, and everything in between.
- Come As You Are: Stargazing sessions, hands-on experiments, and science slams— these events don't ask for expertise, only curiosity and the questions that come with it.
- Shifting Perspectives: Look at science from another angle. From indigenous knowledge to the experiences of women in science, different lenses on what science can be, and who it's for.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Science Up Close: Discover a programme that explores how science shapes the world around us. Your body, the cosmos, and everything in between.
- Come As You Are: Stargazing sessions, hands-on experiments, and science slams— these events don't ask for expertise, only curiosity and the questions that come with it.
- Shifting Perspectives: Look at science from another angle. From indigenous knowledge to the experiences of women in science, different lenses on what science can be, and who it's for.
HIGHLIGHTS
A few ways to spend Day 3, some highlights to close out the Festival Centre weekend. Please note: events are displayed in the language in which they will take place.
Lesung 'Mehr Geschichten aus der Geschichte'
8 November 2026 | 14:30-16:00 | HKW | DE
One of the most successful German-language history podcasts comes live to the stage: Richard Hemmer and Daniel Meßner read two "eureka stories" from their new book, showing that most great inventions come down not to a single flash of genius, but to chance, detours, and unexpected connections.
Lesung 'Mehr Geschichten aus der Geschichte'
8 November 2026 | 14:30-16:00 | HKW | DE
One of the most successful German-language history podcasts comes live to the stage: Richard Hemmer and Daniel Meßner read two "eureka stories" from their new book, showing that most great inventions come down not to a single flash of genius, but to chance, detours, and unexpected connections.
ON THE INSPIRATION STAGE
Some of the most interesting research fits into just a few minutes. On the Inspiration Stage, you'll hear quick-fire talks by early-career researchers on topics ranging from global inequalities and the growing impact of AI to new approaches to cancer treatment. After each session, stick around to meet the speakers, ask your own questions, and dig deeper into the ideas that stood out to you.
GET YOUR FESTIVAL CENTRE PASS
Your 3-Day Festival Centre Pass is free, and it's your key to everything happening across all three days at the Festival Centre. While you're booking, take a moment to reserve a seat for any workshops you don't want to miss. Space is limited, so securing a spot in advance means you're guaranteed a seat rather than hoping for one on the day. Walk-ins are always welcome, but booking ahead gives you priority access and the best shot at the full experience.
THREE DAYS & WAYS TO SEE SCIENCE
The Festival Centre unfolds over three full days, each with its own way of encountering science. Join us on Days 1 and 2 to experience the full Festival Centre programme.
3-Day Festival Centre Pass