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This year’s Science Rendezvous Kingston was also the biggest one yet, showcasing 14 new research areas. These included the Carbon to Metal Coating Institute, demonstrating their innovative coatings that extend the lifespan of critical metals; I-CREAte Kingston, a community-based participatory initiative led by the Department of Family Medicine; the Queen’s Brain Tumour Program; and Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre.

There were plenty of hands-on activities for kids and grown-ups alike, including a display of art restoration technology, offered by Agnes Etherington Art Centre and the Department of Art History and Art Conservation, as well as a display of laser light and 3D imaging by IPG Photonics, and an exploration of biomimicry by the Professional Engineers of Ontario, Kingston Chapter. Special presentations included models of Leonardo da Vinci’s innovative machines, provided by the City of Kingston, as well as the Great Canadian Invention Circus, who presented a short history of Canadian inventors and the role of creativity in innovation. Visitors were also wowed by the life-sized orca skeleton presented by Research Casting International.

Making Science Fun

In 2008, was created to bring science to the public and inspire the next generation. Today, Science Rendezvous represents the largest single-day science festival in the country and spans 30 cities, 10 provinces, and two territories. In 2020, 2022, and 2023, Kingston’s chapter of Science Rendezvous was recognized with national awards, making it one of the most successful Science Rendezvous events in the country.

Science Rendezvous Kingston 2024 was made possible with the support of Queen’s Vice-Principal Research Portfolio, as well as local supporters: Slush Puppie Place, TIME – Translational Institute of Medicine, Kinarm, Benjamin Hotels, 93.5 Country and Kingston’s K-Rock – 105.7.

While this year’s festivities have ended, the learning continues online as through the resources Science Rendezvous Kingston provides for families and schools to access year-round. These include booklists and suggested readings for continued scientific education, curated by Librarians at Queen’s Faculty of Education, and explore STEM@Home activities provided by research groups that participated in the event. Science Rendezvous Kingston 2025 will take place on May 10. A call for participants and booths will be launched in the fall.