Hundreds of people participated in an immersive programme of science, creative activity and practical discovery at Zone ONE, part of the 2025 IF Oxford Science and Ideas Festival.
Zone ONE was staged at the Oxford North innovation district and included activities for all age groups, such as drone football, robotics engineering and chemistry experiments.
The event formed part of Oxford North’s Engage programme, which promotes curiosity and community engagement through science and the arts.
Oxford North managing director Simon Ruck said the event used science to inspire children and families.
He praised the attendance of local participants and the contributions of experts who created an atmosphere of curiosity across the Oxford North site.
Science and art were combined throughout the programme, with coloured-glass workshops and a poetry session led by the Live Canon collective.
Theatre also featured prominently, with Creation Theatre presenting Orbit.
Short films were made accessible through QR codes placed around Fallaize Park.
They gave human form to the scientific and cultural qualities associated with each of the artist’s eight glass polyhedrons.
Oxford development director Victoria Collett, who chairs Oxford North’s public art steering group, said hosting Zone ONE for a second consecutive year demonstrated the district’s commitment to connecting Oxford North with the city’s cultural offering.
She also highlighted strong family attendance and the importance of science-based activities to the Engage art and culture programme.
IF Oxford director Dr Dane Comerford described Oxford North as an appropriate setting for Zone ONE because the district promotes discovery, creativity and possibility for people of every age.
He said the continued partnership between the festival and the district enabled another successful event and allowed children, families and adults to see themselves represented in science.
The £1.2 billion Oxford North innovation district covers 64 acres and is intended to support the UK economy through science and technology.
Plans for the site include up to one million square feet of adaptable laboratory and office accommodation, alongside homes, public areas and facilities for community use.
In its 35th year, the IF Oxford festival presents more than 100 events across the city.
The programme includes talks, performances and workshops intended to make science accessible and enjoyable for people of every age and background.