Christmas landed at the University of Warwick this week, as the Christmas Lectures returned for another year. They featured some of the University's most esteemed scientists stepping out of their labs to amaze attendees in the spirit of Christmas in front of over 900 parents, children and science fans.

Scientists Ally Caldecote and Alex Baker, among others, took centre stage, presenting an evening brimming with science, experiments, and interactive engagement.

Across two evenings, people can watch AI's challenge to craft the perfect Christmas card, explore how nature has inspired groundbreaking engineering feats, experience the magic of snow, and celebrate Sir Isaac Newton's birthday in style.

Live Labs also made a return to the foyer spaces starting at 5:30 pm. Free to attend, visitors had the unique opportunity to join in as Warwick students showcased intriguing exhibits—from the quirky world of fuzzy bacteria to the cutting-edge technology of solar racing cars and even a superconducting train that levitates.

Ally Caldecote, Senior teaching fellow in the Department of Physics at the University of Warwick, said: “The physics department believes very strongly in the responsibility to enthuse and inspire the next generation of scientists as well as engaging the wider community with what we do. We are delighted to invite children, families and grown-ups to join us for our 13^th annual sessions of festive sciencey fun with a variety of scientists taking to the stage as well as hands on opportunities to get up close to activities and experiments in the foyer before the lectures begin. We can’t wait to welcome you!”

Head of creative learning at Warwick Arts Centre, Gemma Wright, said: “The Christmas Lectures are a key part of Warwick Arts Centre's festive calendar. We feel passionate about inspiring the next generation of creatives, scientists and researchers and the lectures are the perfect way to enthuse and engage children, families and educators in what audiences described last year as 'awesome, messy and fun!' It is always a joy to work together with the Physics department, China Plate Theatre and the brilliant, passionate scientists on the stage. To add even more science to the event our recent partnership with Warwick Institute of Engagement means everyone has the chance to get up close to real life science before the show. It's a special set of events that we feel privileged to work on each year.”

Paul Warwick, Director of China Plate Theatre, said: “China Plate have been the Associate Producers at Warwick Arts Centre for over a decade - producing and directing the Christmas Lectures with Ally Caldecote and Gemma Wright is always one of the highlights of our year. As a company whose mission is to open up the way performance is made, who makes it and who it’s experienced by, it is a huge privilege to open up some of the amazing research that goes on all over the Warwick campus to young audiences hungry to learn and be amazed. It’s also often quite messy and a lot of fun!”