Latitude Festival has long been known for its eclectic mix of music and arts, but 2025 marked a thrilling upgrade with the introduction of the Cosmic Shambles Forest of Science and Culture. According to EDP24, this new arena drew in delighted crowds, eager to explore a blend of science and culture.
A Hub of Scientific Wonder
Located in the scenic Henham Park, Suffolk, the Cosmic Shambles Network curated an innovative arena unlike anything previously seen at the festival. With the Apollo stage hosting live talks from leading minds and Museum Street filled with interactive exhibits and pop-up mini-museums, the event transformed into a vibrant hub of scientific wonder.
Trent Burton, co-founder of the Cosmic Shambles Network, remarked on the tremendous success of the arena, “I’m a bit overwhelmed at how big and popular it has been.” Planning for the next year has already commenced, promising even more exciting scientific escapades for future attendees.
Hands-On Fun and Learning
Among the most popular features was Greenpower, which captivated children by allowing them to build and explore engineering marvels through car kits. Jake Barnes, Greenpower’s event manager, noted the enthusiasm of young attendees: “Mainly children asking if they can drive the car,” showcasing the eager curiosity of the festival’s younger participants.
From Dinosaurs to Digital Masterpieces
The Centre of Computing History, located in nearby Cambridge, brought nostalgia with offerings like a PlayStation 2 and a mysterious “feel-it” box. Lizzie Salter of the museum humorously pointed out, “In the second box is a floppy disk and it’s been hilarious because so many children think we 3D printed the save icon.”
Salter emphasized the value of such interactive environments: “I think anything that gives people the opportunity to have STEM learning in a fun and relaxed environment is important.”
The Future is Bright
Latitude’s commitment to marrying culture with learning experiences in the beautifully immersive Cosmic Shambles arena signals a new era for the festival. One that inspires both awe and curiosity, setting the stage for future generations of thinkers and innovators. As planning for the next year is already underway, festival-goers can certainly expect even more opportunities to engage with the wonders of science and imagination.