Calgary is a fun place to be during the fall, especially with Beakerhead returning to Telus Spark Science Centre next month.
The highly anticipated annual event is entering a new era with Petri Dish by Beakerhead, running Nov. 6 to 8.
Calgary’s signature collision of science, art, and engineering kicks off with an epic adults-only opening-night party.
However, the three-day science festival offers plenty for guests of all ages to discover.
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“The University of Calgary is thrilled to have Beakerhead back,” said Dr. Kristin Baetz, PhD, dean of the Faculty of Science at UCalgary.
“Through Petri Dish, our partnership with Telus Spark takes science out of the lab and into the community — bringing researchers and curious minds together in unexpected places to spark new conversations. It’s science, art and engineering coming alive right here in Calgary.”
Petri Dish by Beakerhead begins with Beakernight powered by ATB on Friday, Nov. 6.
Telus Spark Science Centre
Highlights of the 18+ event include HACSA medieval armoured combat with the Calgary Silver Gryphons, the Beakerhead Show’s fire vs. ice experiments, a live planetarium show, and a Digital Immersion Rave with JONAHVISION and DJ JUICY MANGO.
Guests can also check out the ol.facto Forgotten Alchemy Lab, try to solve a self-guided sensory puzzle on the science of smell, enjoy poetry by Miranda Krogstad, hear a talk by Sam Hester, take part in hands-on activities, and more.
On Saturday, Nov. 7, Telus Spark will offer free Petri Dish programming, with tickets at the door on a first-come, first-served basis, thanks to sponsor Ovintiv. The venue will also stay open until 10 p.m. on Saturday for the late-night crowd.
Those looking to keep the fun going on Sunday, Nov. 8 will enjoy reduced admission of just $10 for adults and $5 for children. Don’t forget to check out the Baby Beakerhead and the Petri Dish Main Stage, part of the weekend lineup.
TELUS Spark Science Centre
Other off-site programming is happening at the University of Calgary throughout the three-day festival of science, art, technology, engineering and math (STEAM).
Activities include the sold-out Brew Lab on Nov. 4 and Seven Wonders on Nov. 7, a free afternoon showcasing seven University of Calgary researchers sharing insights on topics like auroras, artificial intelligence, dinosaurs, and biomedical engineering.
Information on all Petri Dish by Beakerhead events and tickets is available online.
Petri Dish by Beakerhead
When: Nov. 6 to 8, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Telus Spark and various locations
Cost: Free and ticketed events. More info online