About us
The largest science festival in Slovakia
We bring the world of science, research and innovation closer to the public in an accessible and engaging way. ERN is a non-profit initiative aimed at making science accessible and connecting scientists, schools and society.
The Power of Science – Freedom to Shape our Future
This year’s theme explores how science not only helps us understand the world, but also enables us to actively shape the future we want to live in.
Science as a tool that helps us navigate today’s world
We have more information than ever before – yet it is increasingly difficult to distinguish what is true. Algorithms decide what we see. Climate change requires fast and thoughtful responses. Technologies are transforming the labour market faster than society can adapt.
In this context, science is not just a source of knowledge. It is a tool that helps us understand the world as it really is – and consciously shape the future we want to live in.
A Slovak festival that is part of a major European initiative
European Researchers’ Night has been part of a Europe-wide initiative supported by the European Commission since 2006.
Every year, more than 25 countries and over 300 European cities take part.
The festival attracts more than 1.5 million visitors annually.
Five festival cities, countless experiences
European Researchers’ Night will take place on Friday, September 25, 2026 in Bratislava, Košice, Banská Bystrica, Žilina and Poprad.
Main programme at Stará tržnica
The main programme in Bratislava takes place at Stará tržnica – in the morning it is intended for pupils and students, and in the afternoon for the general public.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy interactive stands, lectures by scientists, thematic blocks, concerts and the connection between science and art.
A rich programme beyond Bratislava too
In the other cities, the festival takes place in shopping centres, offering an equally diverse programme – scientific presentations, experiments, engaging discussions and inspiring encounters with the world of research and innovation.
Formats you can look forward to
The festival goes beyond the main programme
In addition to the main programme in the festival cities, European Researchers’ Night also includes a number of accompanying events before, during and after the festival day.
Science also comes directly to schools
The festival also includes school activities taking place on the day of the event, as well as before and after it, connecting students with the world of research and innovation.
For the general public
The festival is open to everyone, regardless of age, profession or previous knowledge.
Science in everyday life
The festival shows how scientific topics affect everyday life, technology and the future.
Science meets art
Knowledge also takes on a visual, spatial and artistic form here.
A new experience every year
Each edition changes with its theme – from the programme to the visual identity.
Our website is not fully available in English yet
We are currently working on making more of our website available in English. In the meantime, if you have any questions about the festival, programme, locations or activities, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help.
Every year, European Researchers’ Night also includes selected programme in English, and we will gladly recommend suitable parts of the festival for international visitors.
We will be happy to guide you
Contact us at nocvedy@sovva.sk and we will gladly answer your questions and recommend a programme for you.
Get in touch →Year 2025 in Numbers
A look at the scale of the festival and the community it brings together across Slovakia.