The Fête de la Science 2026 lands in Saint-Cyr-l'École in the Yvelines with a program of free science activities running from October 2 to 12. Now in its 35th edition, organized by the Ministry of Higher Education and Research, the festival invites kids and adults alike to explore the fascinating world of science under the theme "Savory Science". This town of about 18,000 residents, just a few kilometers from Versailles and renowned for the Saint-Cyr Military School, is gearing up to welcome researchers and science enthusiasts.
Created in 1991, the Fête de la Science is organized every year by the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research to give everyone an opportunity to discover the world of science and meet the men and women who make science what it is today. This national event encourages the sharing of knowledge and exchanges between researchers and the general public, promotes the work of the scientific community, facilitates access to high-quality scientific information and encourages active participation in public debate on contemporary scientific issues.
Every year, thousands of free events are held all over France, transforming laboratories, universities, museums and libraries into gateways to the world of research. The aim remains the same: to make science accessible to all, and to inspire young people to take up science.
For its 2026 edition, the Fête de la Science delves into the theme "Savvy Flavors". Behind this title lie numerous questions about food, taste, health, agriculture, and the environment. This theme demonstrates how science affects every stage, from food production to processing and consumption, while also examining cooking habits and the challenges of tomorrow.
The audience will thus gain a clearer sense of how taste works, why some foods appeal to us more than others, and how researchers approach nutrition, fermentation, preservation, and new farming practices. "Saveurs Savantes" also opens the door to very concrete topics, such as the impact of our eating habits on the planet, food security, and how our plates are evolving in the face of climate change.
Saint-Cyr-l'École, located in the Yvelines département of the Île-de-France region, is distinguished by its rich historical heritage and emblematic institutions. This town of 18,344 inhabitants is home not only to the Saint-Cyr military academy, but also to a civilian airfield that bears witness to its historic links with aeronautics. The commune is part of the Versailles Grand Parc agglomeration, on the doorstep of the famous château.
The town boasts modern cultural facilities such as the Gérard-Philipe theater, which regularly hosts shows, and the Albert Camus municipal library, which plays an active role in cultural and scientific events. Its proximity to Versailles and the major research centers of the Ile-de-France region makes it an ideal location for scientific mediation initiatives.
Tales "By the Tempting Scent"
For ages 4 and up.
What time is it, Mrs. Parsley? Mealtime, Mrs. Turnip, the soup, Mrs. Cabbage? A few tales to savor, vegetables to discover... How to whip up a seasonal soup by blending words with the garden’s best goodies? Come share the scents, colors and flavors!
Participation requirements:
• Intended audience: ages 3 to 6
• Conditions: Booking required
Hours: Wednesday, October 7 – 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Sophisticated Flavors Workshop
Sciencis offers a hands-on workshop laid out as a science journey to explore food from multiple angles.
For families, suitable for children aged 8 and up
Participation requirements :
• Target audiences : 6–11 years, 11–15 years, 15–18 years, 18–25 years, 25 years and up
• Conditions : Booking required
Schedule: Saturday, October 10 — 4:00–6:00 p.m.
The Fête de la Science is a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of French research. If the Fête de la Science attracts thousands of visitors every year, it's also thanks to its spirit: a free event open to all. Activities are designed to suit all ages and levels of knowledge, from fun workshops for children to cutting-edge conferences for enthusiasts.
It's also an opportunity to meet researchers face-to-face and understand their day-to-day work. At a time when scientific issues are playing an increasingly important role in social debates, taking part in the Fête de la Science helps us to develop our critical faculties and our understanding of the world around us.
The Science Festival 2026 in Saint-Cyr-l'École is shaping up to be a must-attend event for all the curious. Between local activities and the department-wide program, this edition dedicated to "Savants' Flavors" promises exciting discoveries in a town that cherishes its links with innovation and knowledge. To view the detailed schedule of local activities, we invite you to consult the city's official website or reach out to Saint-Cyr's cultural facilities.
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
Dates and Opening Time
From October 2, 2026 to October 12, 2026
Location
Saint Cyr l'École
saint cyr l'école
78210 Saint Cyr l'Ecole
Route planner
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.fetedelascience.fr
