On September 25, 2026, the European Night of Researchers returns, the event that brings science out of laboratories to bring it closer to the general public. For one evening, universities, research institutions and organizations propose experiments, encounters, laboratories, exhibitions, games and interactive activities dedicated to curious people of all ages.
Promoted by the European Commission, the event involves numerous European Union countries and aims to strengthen the dialogue between research and society, showing the contribution of science to daily life and to the great challenges of the present.
In Italy the 2026 edition unfolds through several specific projects, including SHARPER (SHAring Researchers’ Passion for Education and Rights) which organizes and runs the event in 13 cities. Also ISTAT will participate in the event in the year of its centenary, with activities dedicated to statistical culture and STEM disciplines.
In this article we have selected five events in different Italian cities: the full program, with all initiatives and up-to-date information, is available on the official Night of the Researchers website.
Rome, science takes the spotlight at the NET Village
In Rome the Night of the Researchers becomes a genuine science village at the Città dell’Altra Economia (in the Testaccio district), where on September 25 and 26 the public will be able to visit stands and take part in laboratories, games, performances, dialogue spaces and exhibitions. Within the broad program, there are initiatives designed for all ages.
The NET Village places the direct relationship between citizens and researchers at its core, with activities focused on the most current topics in research.
Perugia, launches the Researcher Passport
In Perugia, at the Monumental Complex of San Pietro, from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., attendees can participate in laboratories and interactive experiences, demonstrations and experiments. There will also be meetings with researchers and talks on topics such as artificial intelligence and innovation.
This edition will also bring a breath of fresh air with the launch of the Researcher Passport, a pathway that will also involve Borgo XX Giugno and many activities in the neighborhood.
In the morning, meanwhile, in the Sala dei Notari, there will be an event on behavioural economics, part of the Researchers@School program by SHARPER, dedicated to schools.
L’Aquila, earthquakes and scientific misinformation
In L’Aquila, among the many events on the program, research will address with high school students one of the topics most tied to the region with the meeting “The biggest myths about earthquakes (and why we keep believing them).” INGV researchers will explain what we really know about seismic risk and will tackle some of the most widely held beliefs, leaving room for audience questions. The event will be at 4:00 p.m.
Furthermore, in Piazza Duomo and at the Piazzale dell’Emiciclo the Observatory of Astronomy of Abruzzo of INAF will be present with discussion moments, laboratories and guided sky observations.
Catania, a journey through the history of the Universe
In Catania the Night of the Researchers will offer laboratories, demonstrations and mini-talks in several city-centre venues. Among the highlights is the City of Science event “The History of the Universe: a journey through physics,” complemented by activities designed for curious researchers and students.
Sassari makes research results accessible
In Sassari, the Eugenio Tavolara Pavilion will host on September 25 numerous exhibits, games, debates and scientific laboratories. From 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., researchers will meet the public, aiming to make the results and the various topics of research accessible.
