2013 World Science Festival in New York City

By Katie Sagal

Everyone knows New York is one of the best places in the world for art, culture and entertainment, but did you know that NYC is big in the science scene, too? There are plenty of science-oriented New York City attractions available this spring, including the 2013 World Science Festival. Hosted in New York each year by the Science Festival Foundation, this year’s festival is from May 29 to June 2, 2013, and will be held in locations across the city. The Science Festival Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to sharing the wonder and significance of scientific discovery with the general public. This series of events is perfect for any visitor or local interested in learning more about our world. Sessions span a variety of topics, formats, and styles, including everything from conventional lectures and multi-media presentations to pie-making, film-viewing, and a science themed StorySLAM. Here’s a selection of just a few of the many sessions available during the 2013 World Science Festival.

Big Picture Questions

One of the great things about modern science is just how much exciting and groundbreaking work is being done in labs, universities, and research facilities around the world. These sessions feature cutting-edge topics and big questions that humans have always asked about themselves and the universe. Spooky Action: The Drama of Quantum Mechanics Speakers: Brian Greene, Maia Guest, Carl Howell, Michael Roush Wednesday, May 29, 2013 / 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM Also available on Thursday during the same time slot in the same theater. The New Victory Theater This popular session is all about the mysteries of quantum mechanics, from Einstein’s day to our own. Learn how quantum theories radically changed the ways scientists understood the fabric of the universe. Perfect for the aspiring astrophysicist or Michael Crichton fan.
Image of Accessories, Image courtesy of the Science Festival Foundation
Architects of the Mind: A Blueprint for the Human Brain Speakers: Bill Weir, R. Douglas Fields, Kristen Harris, Murray Shanahan, Gregory Wheeler Friday, May 31, 2013 / 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM The Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College You’ve probably heard the metaphor of the body as a machine – well, your brain may be the computer that runs it! Speakers at this session debate past and present theories about the functioning of the human brain, trying to figure out what makes our brains more than “an elaborate organic computer.” Of course all this raises the provoking question: if our brains are computers, then will the advanced computing systems in our future count as sentient? Infinity Speakers: Keith Devlin, Raphael Bousso, Philip Clayton, Steven Strogatz, W Hugh Woodin Friday, May 31, 2013 / 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM NYW Skirball Center for the Performing Arts It doesn’t get any more “big picture” than this. From math to art to philosophy, the concept of infinity has been a huge part of human culture for centuries. In this session, modern scientists and philosophers will debate the possibility of infinity as something that actually exists in our tangible world. The source of some of the most profound and most controversial ideas in human history, the idea of infinity is a truly fascinating topic.

Science and Food

Some of my favorite sessions this year combine the human love of food with the science that produces it. Learn all about the science behind some of your favorite snacks and beverages, alongside a history of the ways in which advances in modern technology have changed both our diet and our relationship with food as a culture. Cheers to Science! A Drinkable Feast of Beer, Biotechnology, and Archaeology Speakers: Sam Calagione, Patrick E. McGovern Thursday, May 30, 2013 / 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM The Bell House The art of brewing beer dates back to 9000 BC, making it quite possibly the oldest use of biotechnology in human history. Beer was also influential in shaping the human diet, agricultural industry, and scientific progress. Explore ancient ales, and even try a few samples! When else can you say you’ve tried a 3,500-year-old Nordic Grog recipe? (Grog tastes a lot better than it sounds.)
Image of Carrot, Food, Produce, Image courtesy of the Science Festival Foundation
The Taste of Science Speakers: Dave Arnold, Maxime Bilet, Owen Clark, Wylie Dufresne, Rachel Dutton, Stuart Firestein, Kent Kirshenbaum, Michael Laiskonis, Harold McGee, Amy Rowat, César Vega Thursday, May 30, 2013 / 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Astor Center This session is being billed as “part science lab, part cocktail dinatoire.” Hosted by chefs and culinary scientists, this event is a multi-course tasting experience that reflects the endless possibilities of science in the kitchen. Did you know that a lot of scientific discoveries have been made by experimenting chefs? The Science of Food: From Geek to Chic Maxime Bilet, Anne E. McBride, Harold McGee Friday, May 31, 2013 / 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM The Institute of Culinary Education If “The Taste of Science” looks interesting to you, you’ll probably love this one, too. This session features two groundbreaking books by Harold McGee and Maxine Bilet as the heart of a conversation about the relationship between science and cooking. Think of it as a great retrospective on the culture and technology of food science.

Family-Friendly Sessions

Because the World Science Festival offers such a diverse selection of events and talks, there are a few that aren’t designed with kids in mind (see above: “Cheers to Science!”). Fortunately, Festival planners are putting on a bunch of great events that kids and families will enjoy. The Dance of the Planets: An Evening Under the Stars Saturday, June 1, 2013 / 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM Pier 1 at Brooklyn Bridge Park This is the event for kids who love to stargaze (the ones with glow-in-the-dark stickers on the ceiling, too). This outdoor party beneath the Brooklyn Bridge will be a great opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky alongside leading astronomers. There will be live music and plenty of telescopes to go around (although you’re encouraged to bring your own if you have one). Amateurs and professionals all welcome! [Tip: If your kids love stargazing here, visit the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History for more astronomical fun.] Cool Jobs Speakers: Baba Brinkman, Katherine Isbister, Michelle Khine, Amanda Kinchla, Edwin Olson Sunday, June 2, 2013 / 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts Image of Animal, Dinosaur, Indoors, Person, As part of the Science Festival Foundation’s dedication to spreading an interest in science, this session is all about the cool jobs across the science fields available today. If your kids are really into robots, show them the possibilities of a future in engineering design! Other highlighted jobs include everything from ecology to biomedical engineering. The perfect opportunity to inspire a life-long love of science. Of course, this is just a small sliver of what’s going to be on tap at the World Science Festival this year. Visit the Festival website for more information on the schedule; some exhibits and sessions have yet to be announced. And don’t be discouraged if something you really want to see has been sold out – there are a limited number of tickets available only at the door. If your visit to the World Science Festival piques your curiosity, consider a visit to some of the other science-themed New York City attractions, like the American Museum of Natural History (home to one of the best collections of dinosaur bones in the world, plus the famous Hayden Planetarium) and the Intrepid Museum (actually on an aircraft carrier!) and Space Shuttle Pavilion.

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Things to do in Central Park New York

Central Park is the largest green space in Manhattan, attracting millions of visitors each year. Situated in the heart of the city, this public park serves as a meeting area for visitors and locals alike and stands as an emblem of New York City culture. Whether you’re looking to catch a rowboat on the lake, visit your favorite furry friends at the zoo, or watch classical theater in the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of reasons to love this urban oasis. So, if you’re thinking about exploring this area of the city, have a read through our comprehensive list of things to do whilst you’re there! Hit the Classics One of our favorite things to do in Central Park is taking a pedicab tour. A classic New York activity and total crowd-pleaser, the carriage rides at Central Park provide a great way to get to know the city. Along the way, you’ll pass by famous landmarks, beautiful greenery and movie sites. 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Situated at the southeast corner of the park, the zoo seeks to provide an engaging and educational experience, with a focus on the restoration of endangered species populations. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to view over 130 species of animals and learn more about where they come from. Before you go, make sure that you check the schedule for penguin and sea lion feedings! Take in the Views Though Central Park is recognized as one of New York’s most beloved outdoor attractions, it’s home to many impressive and unique architectural marvels. Located at Vista Rock, Belvedere Castle is a total must-see for architecture buffs and history geeks alike. Visitors can take tours to view its stunning interiors, as well as an expansive collection of historic artefacts. In addition, this beautiful folly grants stunning views of Turtle Pond and Great Lawn, the Ramble, and the bordering cityscape. See Central Park from a whole new perspective with the next item on our list. From April through to November, visitors can catch a rowboat to admire some of the park’s most picturesque sights. On the ride, you’ll be able to get a closeup of the gorgeous greenery, birds and butterflies, all flourishing in this unique manmade living system. Afterwards, why not grab a bite at the Loeb Boathouse restaurant whilst admiring the beautiful scenery? We couldn’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon! If you’re visiting New York in the springtime, you might want to check out the cherry blossom trees, which should be in full bloom around this time of the year. The best place for cherry blossom peeping runs from 72nd street right through to 96th street, with the biggest clusters around the Reservoir, Cherry Hill and Pilgrim Hill. In addition, the Central Park Conservancy might also enjoy a tour of these wondrous blossoms for those who are interested in learning more about the botanical world. 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A thoroughly remarkable and captivating experience, this one should be in everyone’s itineraries! Another one of our favorite events held in Central Park is the New York Philharmonic. Each year, the event brings people together from all walks of life to enjoy live classical music right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a classic music maestro or a casual listener, the experience of one of America's most revered symphony orchestras playing against the backdrop of the starry night sky is a magical experience you won’t want to miss out on. We recommend taking your own food and drink, as well as a waterproof liner to sit on, since there is no official seating. As one of the top New York attractions, Central Park perfectly embodies the city with its bustling atmosphere, historic architecture, and picturesque landscapes as far as the eye can see. The area itself is home to some one-of-a-kind structures, hidden treasures, and exciting activities which can be enjoyed all year round. In addition, you can find seasonal events and programs which are sure to blow your mind. During the springtime, check out the cherry blossom trees, and in the height of summer, enjoy classic music under the sparkling night sky. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
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NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade 2014

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Go City Expert
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New York City Tourism Discounts

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