A May 2026 notice from Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum) arrived via email on April 30, 2026 (available for a limited time here). Two items are being highlighted here. First,
From apples to insects: The artists who brought science to life
Art and science have always shared a common thread: the power of observation. For centuries, scientists, especially those studying plants and insects, have used art to record and share their discoveries. Since 1913, the Central Experimental Farm has been a hub for this intersection of creativity and inquiry.
Opening May 1 [2026] at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the exhibition, The Art of Science: A century of illustrating agriculture at the Central Experimental Farm , celebrates four artists who have shaped the farm’s legacy. They include Arthur Kellett, Faith Fyles [emphasis mine], and Frank Hennessey, who worked there from 1913 to 1948, and Jessica Hsiung, the current scientific illustrator at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Together, they’ve captured everything from new apple varieties to Canada’s diverse native insects, leaving a lasting mark on both science and art.
Concurrently, “the Ottawa Art Gallery/Galerie d’art d’Ottawa (AGO/GAO) has an exhibition dedicated to one of the artists featured at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum exhibition, “Faith Fyles: In Full Bloom,” which runs until September 27, 2026. (You can find more about it here in my March 27, 2026 posting.
Double the discount for CAA [Canadian Automobile Association] members!
CAA Members: join us for a day of fun and discovery with Ingenium! On May 23 [2026], CAA members will enjoy 50% off admission to all three Ingenium museums. That’s double the usual discount! Present a valid CAA card to receive discounted admission for up to four people.
Can’t visit on May 23 [2026]? No problem! Thanks to CAA’s partnership with Ingenium, CAA Members always save 25% on individual museum tickets and 10% on Ingenium memberships.
A March 26, 2026 notice from Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum) received via email and available for a limited time here lists some upcoming attractions, Note: I am highlighting only one of the listed events in addition to the farm event listed first,
Hop into spring at Easter at the farm!
Celebrate the joys of spring at Easter at the farm at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum! From April 3 to 6, 2026, the barns come alive with family-friendly activities, hands-on learning, and plenty of adorable newborn animals.
Meet fluffy chicks, ducklings, lambs, and other spring arrivals while discovering how farmers care for animals during this busy season. Enjoy interactive egg-themed demonstrations and experiments, explore the journey from cacao to chocolate (with sweet samples along the way), and take part in crafts and games designed for all ages. Guests can also groom a calf, attend special animal presentations, and relax with bilingual family movie screenings throughout the day.
It’s the perfect way to spend the Easter weekend — combining outdoor fun, agricultural discovery, and unforgettable moments with the cutest residents on the farm.
Advanced tickets are required, and this popular event often sells out. Special event pricing applies.
Faith Fyles: In Full Bloom is a new exhibition at the Ottawa Art Gallery developed in partnership with Ingenium. It explores the life and work of Faith Fyles, the first woman appointed as a botanist with Canada’s Department of Agriculture. Fyles combined botanical research with artistic illustration, transforming close observation of plants into both scientific knowledge and visual expression. Contemporary artists expand on her legacy through works inspired by beadwork, plant dyes, photography, and agricultural histories, highlighting women’s ongoing relationships with the natural world.
Here’s more about Faith Fyles and the exhibition, from the Ottawa Art Gallery/Galerie d’art d’Ottawa (OAG/GAO)’s About page for the exhibition, Note: A link has been removed,
Faith Fyles: In Full Bloom
March 7, 2026 – September 27, 2026 Level 4
Faith Fyles, Barbara Brown, Deborah Margo, Marie-Jeanne Musiol, Susan Geraldine Taylor, Stephanie Tenasco, and Sarah Potter
This exhibition explores the intersection of art and science through the life and work of Faith Fyles (1875 – 1961), the first woman to be appointed as a botanist with Canada’s Department of Agriculture. The exhibition traces her distinctive dual careers at Ottawa’s Central Experimental Farm (CEF): first as a botanist and then as an artist, with both roles often merging in one project. Fyles collected botanical specimens, researched plant diseases and documented plants and fruits in several media and styles. Fyles navigated a gendered bureaucracy while creating and sharing knowledge about Canadian agriculture during its rapid expansion in the early twentieth century.
Fyles’ legacy is reinterpreted through lenses of land, labour, and scientific craft in contemporary works presented throughout the exhibition: Stephanie Tenasco celebrates Algonquin beadwork traditions and enduring relationships with the natural world; Deborah Margo’s dye experiments are based on the histories of women’s knowledge-making and deep connections to plant life; while Marie-Jeanne Musiol’s Kirlian photographs propose a new kind of herbarium; Barbara Brown brings visibility to the often-overlooked labour of women farmers engaged in sustainable practices across the region; and Susan Geraldine Taylor’s hand-coloured prints of the CEF highlight its centennial and advocate for the protection of its landscapes.
The works by these artists expand and add complexity to Fyles’ legacy. The works reveal the many ways women continue to observe, document and care for the natural world.
This exhibition is a unique collaboration between the Ottawa Art Gallery and Ingenium-Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation. Drawing on Ingenium’s large horticultural art and artefacts collection, the exhibition team launched a research project that has shed new light on Faith Fyles’s life and career—and uncovered previously undocumented works.
Curators: Rebecca Basciano, Meghan Ho, Dr. William Knight, Dr. Cindy Stelmackowich Curatorial Coordination: Erin Bruce Curatorial Research Assistant: Casarina Hocevar Exhibition Design: Barbara Suhr Graphic Design: Leah Ross and Mathieu Kirchmayer Technical Team: Stephanie Germano, Dan Austin, Rob Keefe, Mark Garland, Neil Hossack, Fen Prior-Delahanty, Esma Gardner Jones, Sabrina Ferrari, and Evalyn Shields. Editors: Matt Harrison, Véronique Couillard French Translation: Marie-Camille Lalande Photo Documentation: House of Common Studio
Institutional Lenders and Partners: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Government of Canada Canadian Agriculture Library Canadian Museum of Nature Ingenium – Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation Library and Archives Canada National Film Board of Canada Royal Botanical Gardens (Canada) University of Guelph
Sponsored by:
This exhibition was also realized with the support of the City of Ottawa, the Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.
For decades, the work of Faith Fyles, a scientific artist based in Ottawa, quietly shaped Canada’s agricultural science. Now, in a partnership between Ingenium – Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation and the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG), Faith Fyles: In Full Bloom brings renewed attention to Canada’s first woman botanist and a pioneering scientific artist whose career was rooted at Ottawa’s Central Experimental Farm.
Untitled [Faith Fyles at her easel], c.1930, photograph. Courtesy of Vanessa Nugent.
Arriving at the Farm in 1910 as a seed analyst, Fyles became the first woman in Canada’s Civil Service to hold a scientific position when she was promoted to assistant botanist. At a time when few women were permitted to pursue scientific careers, she conducted fieldwork across the country—often travelling alone—collecting and identifying hundreds of plant specimens for the National Herbarium. Her research ranged from poisonous plants affecting farming to germination experiments on wild rice along the Rideau River, where she identified and named a previously undocumented fungus species.
In 1920, Fyles broke new ground again when she became the first artist appointed to the Central Experimental Farm’s Horticulture Division. There, she produced hundreds of meticulous paintings of apples, berries, and other plant varieties developed in Ottawa’s experimental orchards. These works were not merely decorative illustrations; they were scientific tools, recording colour, form, and internal structure with precision so that new varieties could be studied, promoted, and shared with growers across the country. Today, her paintings form an extraordinary visual archive of Canadian agricultural innovation.
Educated at McGill University under the mentorship of trailblazing botanist Carrie Derick, and having studied art in Paris and London, Fyles uniquely bridged scientific rigour and artistic skills. Her career unfolded during a period of rapid agricultural expansion in Canada, and her contributions helped shape both the scientific record and the visual culture of that era.
Faith Fyles: In Full Bloom not only revisits this remarkable Ottawa story but also places it in conversation with contemporary artists who expand and reinterpret her legacy. Our next story will explore how their works explore themes of land, knowledge, and care for the natural world, reminding us that the relationship between art and science remains as vital today as it was in Fyles’ time.
This exhibition is a unique collaboration between the Ottawa Art Gallery and Ingenium-Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation. Drawing on Ingenium’s large horticultural art and artefacts collection, the exhibition team launched a research project that has shed new light on Faith Fyles’s life and career, and uncovered previously undocumented works.
The exhibition “Faith Fyles: In Full Bloom” runs at the Ottawa Art Gallery/Galerie d’art d’Ottawa (AGO/GAO) until September 27, 2026.
A February 27, 2026 notice from Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum) received via email and available for a limited time here, profiles their upcoming March 2026 events. Note: Keep reading for even more 2026 March Spring Break events following this notice,
March Break fun is coming fast to Ingenium museums, with hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and celebrate discovery!
Quebec March Break: February 28–March 8 [2026]
Ontario March Break: March 14–22 [2026]
[British Columbia March 16 – 27 [2026]
At the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, welcome the early signs of spring as newborn lambs and goat kids arrive on the farm. Families can explore backyard birds through interactive games and crafts, discover how maple syrup is made from tree to table, sample maple-inspired treats, and cozy up for pajama-friendly family movies with a cereal bar. The BeaverTails truck will also be on site with sweet and savoury favourites (additional fees apply).
At the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, celebrate a milestone moment as Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen prepares for the Artemis II mission—the first crewed lunar flight in more than 50 years. Explore lunar images and 3D models, try the Canadarm challenge, and take on a scavenger hunt inspired by the mission patch.
Meanwhile, the Canada Science and Technology Museum blends science and play with its annual Cardboard Extravaganza, live stage demonstrations, special guests, and (March 18–20 [2026]) Backyard Brains activities for Brain Awareness Week.
Three museums, countless ways to make March Break unforgettable for the whole family!
Now for specifics,
Say hello to spring’s sweetest arrivals
Starting March 1 [2026], join us at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum for our spring daily demonstrations. Welcome the newest arrivals—lambs and goat kids! Meet the rabbits, create a homemade birdseed feeder to take home, and discover the sweet taste of spring with maple syrup baking in the demonstration kitchen. It’s a perfect day of farm fun for the whole family.
Easter weekend is hopping back to the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, April 3 to 6 [2026]—and tickets won’t last long! Meet adorable newborn lambs, fluffy chicks and ducklings, enjoy sweet chocolate samples, and take part in hands-on springtime fun throughout the barns. Special event pricing is in effect, and advance tickets are required for all guests. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, March 11 [2026] at 9:30 a.m.—so hop to it and book early before this egg-stra special weekend sells out!
Drones in action: explore Canada’s high-flying future
Join us at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum on March 26, [2026] from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., for the free 2026 Kenneth M. Molson Lecture—an engaging evening exploring how drones (Unpiloted Aerial Vehicles) are transforming aviation in Canada. Hear from experts working on the front lines of defence, remote sensing, and medical supply delivery to remote communities. The program features a fireside chat followed by a Q&A, moderated by museum curator Erin Gregory. Attend in person in Ottawa or tune in live via Zoom to discover how these powerful tools are shaping the future of flight.
This March Break, join us for an exciting blend of science and play!
Join us this March Break for an exciting combination of science and play! Explore a variety of fun activities and experiments that will spark your curiosity. Get creative at our giant cardboard play area, join us at the main stage for thrilling demonstrations, and meet special guests who will showcase fascinating projects and scientific research!
*Please note that we are open on Mondays during these two weeks.
Cardboard extravaganza
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Join us for our fourth annual Cardboard Extravaganza! Build towering structures out of cardboard blocks, create giant geometric sculptures, and work with others to create a miniature cardboard community!
Parents/guardians must remain in the Special Exhibition Hall while their children play. Adults are welcome to enjoy the lounge seating while they wait.
Please note that the museum may limit the number of participants in the programming area at any given time.
Backyard brains
Join the Ottawa Chapter of the Society for Neuroscience for some surprising neuroscience activities to celebrate Brain Awareness Week. Try our Backyard Brains experiments, which allow you to control a robotic claw or another person’s hand using signals sent from your brain to your muscles! Test your reaction time, see your brainwaves on a computer, and learn more about touch, taste, and smell.
A January 29, 2026 notice from Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum) announcement (received via email and available for a limited time here), profiles their upcoming February 2026 events. I will be focusing mostly on the upcoming space-themed events,
Artemis II: Celebrate Canada’s Moon mission
Canada is going to the Moon—come celebrate with us!
From February 2 to 16, 2026*, join the Canada Aviation and Space Museum as we mark Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s historic journey to the Moon on the Artemis II mission, the first crewed lunar mission in more than 50 years. Countdown to the launch with hands-on demonstrations that explore orbits, craters, and the mechanics behind this incredible mission. Take on the Canadarm challenge, explore lunar photos and 3D models in the Moon gallery, and hunt for key elements of Hansen’s mission patch throughout the museum. This interactive program gives visitors of all ages a chance to celebrate Canada’s role in space exploration and witness history in the making.
*Please note: Mission launch dates may change, and the program will adjust accordingly if the launch is postponed. **See update at the end of this post for the latest.**
Three museums. One unforgettable Family Day weekend!
Make Family Day weekend–February 14-16–a winter highlight with a visit to the Ingenium museums, each offering hands-on fun and inspiring discoveries for all ages. At the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, families can meet farm animals, get creative with barn quilt crafts, and cozy up with a family-friendly movie and hot chocolate. The Canada Aviation and Space Museum invites visitors to soar from the Silver Dart to the Canadarm with special demonstrations and Rocket adventures, while the Canada Science and Technology Museum brings the excitement with Cool Science Saturday (February 14 only), daily demonstrations, and LEGO® builds. Get your tickets and make Family Day weekend one to remember!
Lift off with your littlest learners at Science for tots “in flight” at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Designed for caregivers and children aged 0–24 months, this gentle, hands-on program uses songs, stories, and sensory play to introduce early science concepts. The program launches on February 4 [2026], with a session inspired by space exploration and a second session on March 11 centred on flight, and costs $16.75 + tax per session. Families can also enjoy a parallel Science for tots program at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, offering even more playful science fun for tiny explorers starting on February 7 [2026].
Celebrate National Aviation Day at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, with a special early celebration on February 22 [2026] featuring Heroes on the Air, a live performance presented by the RCAF [Royal Canadian Air Force[ Foundation and included with museum admission. Step into a 1940s radio studio as RCAF heroes are brought to life through powerful storytelling, live sound effects, and music. Be sure to explore the museum’s iconic aircraft and exhibitions before or after the show for a full day of aviation-inspired discovery. [Note: February 23, 2026 is the official National Aviation Day]
February 4, 2026 – February 18, 2026 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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What’s happening at the museum:
Countdown clock – Follow the countdown to the mission’s launch date.
Hands-on demonstrations – Learn how orbits and craters are a crucial part of the mission.
Canadarm challenge – Get a closer look at how to operate the Canadarm.
Moon gallery – Explore lunar photos and 3D models.
Scavenger hunt – Search the museum for key elements of astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s mission patch.
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate Canada’s role in space exploration—the Moon has never felt closer!
To watch the launch live, join the Canadian launch event livestreamed on the Canadian Space Agency’s Facebook account and YouTube channel (available in both official languages, with simultaneous interpretation).
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The January 29, 2026 Ingenium notice is available for a limited time here.
What about Vancouver, you ask?
Vancouver’s Science World has been hosting an “Artemis Space Adventure with LEGO® Bricks,” which opened on June 26, 2025 and will continue to April 6, 2026. Here’s more from Science World’s ‘space adventure’ page,
Blast Off to the Moon—One LEGO® Brick at a Time!
Prepare… for… liftoff! Artemis Space Adventure with LEGO® Bricks, presented by White Spot Restaurants, turns the science of space travel—from Moon missions to future journeys to Mars—into hands-on challenges powered by LEGO® bricks.
This interactive exhibition is inspired by none other than NASA’s groundbreaking Artemis Missions, a series of ambitious programs designed to return humans to the Moon for the first time since 1972. Visitors will take on the roles of Artemis space explorers (engineers, scientists, and astronauts) using LEGO® bricks to imagine, design, and build their way through the challenges of deep space.
At the heart of the exhibition are larger-than-life LEGO® sculptures, hands-on engineering challenges, and collaborative workshop stations designed to ignite creativity.
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Feature LEGO® Sculptures:
Apollo 11 Lunar Module “Eagle”: The history-making spacecraft that landed the first human on the moon.
International Space Station: Where nations unite to expand the frontiers of space science.
Space Launch System: Check out NASA’s most powerful rocket, designed to reach Mars.
Axiom Spacesuit: Strike your best astronaut pose in a next-gen space suit photo op!
Neil Armstrong Landing on the Moon: See a LEGO® brick version of Neil Armstrong as he takes his legendary first steps on the lunar surface.
Visitors can build lunar rovers, construct space habitats, and tackle real-world challenges faced by space explorers. Developed for a wide range of ages and abilities, Artemis Space Adventure with LEGO® Bricks is a space to experiment, play, and discover what it takes to reach the Moon.
Blast off with LEGO® bricks — and land with a love for STEAM [science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics] learning.
Artemis Space Adventure with LEGO® Bricks is a travelling exhibition produced and toured internationally by Flying Fish and supported by Science World British Columbia. [and presented by White Spot]
By the way, Flying Fish is based in Minnesota and the company’s focus is on museum exhibitions. As for the folks in Minnesota and given current circumstances, I hope the best for you.
**Update**
The Artemis II launch has been postponed. The earliest date for the next launch is February 8, 2026. Read this January 30, 2026 Associated Press article on the CTV (Canadian Television network) news site for more detail.
A December 26, 2025 notice from Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum), announced a workshop for teenagers that sounds particularly enticing. (The Ingenium announcement was received via email and is available for a limited time here).
Here’s more from the workshop registration page on Ingenium’s Canada Science and Technology Museum website,
Discover wearable technology
January 30, 2026
Future Wearables Lab
Location: Exploratek
Times: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Registration: Advanced registration required. The discount code for members is included in the newsletter.
Age: 8 – 14 years old
In this imaginative, hands-on wearable technology activity, offered in partnership with members of Carleton University’s Creative Interaction[s] Lab, youth participants become wearable-tech inventors! Using familiar gadgets like fitness trackers or game accessories, participants explore how devices work and imagine exciting new purposes for them. With guided support, participants safely take apart discarded tech, learn how the pieces work, and dream up their own creative wearable designs. Best of all, they get to take their unique creation home.
A creative, confidence-building maker adventure for young designers!
Drop-off for the morning session is between 8:30 and 9 a.m., and pick-up is between noon and 12:30 p.m.
Drop-off for the afternoon session is between 12:30 and 1 p.m. and pick-up is between 4 and 4:30 p.m.
The Creative Interactions Lab at Carleton University explores new and playful ways for people to interact with technology. The team experiments with things like flexible materials, wearables, and unusual interfaces to imagine what the future of human-computer interaction could look like.
I found this on Creative Interactions Lab website,
A November 25, 2025 notice from Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum) announcement (received via email and available for a limited time here), profiles their upcoming November/December/January 2025/26 events, Note 1: I’m picking out two of the most interesting (to me) events, Note 2: Be sure to check out the ‘learn more’ as there is at least one surprise,
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Take flight in the Drone Zone
Ever wondered what it’s like to pilot a drone? From November 29 to 30 [2025] and December 6 to 7 [2025[, join us in the Canada Aviation and Space Museum’s Drone Zone to learn the basics of drone piloting, including tips and tricks to soar through the air like a pro. Registration is required, and spots are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visit the Canada Science and Technology Museum on December 6–7, 13–14, 20–22, 29, [2025] and January 2–3 [2026] to experience the enchanting world of model railways. Marvel as tiny trains, crafted and operated by the talented Ottawa Valley HOTRAK Club, travel through detailed scenes. Test your observation skills with a playful “I spy” challenge and meet passionate volunteers who bring these railway worlds to life. It’s a perfect outing for train lovers of all ages!
A September 24, 2025 Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum) announcement (received via email and available for a limited time here), profiles their upcoming September/October 2025 events, Note: I have not included all of the images,
Register for the Orange shirt beading workshop
Register now — spots are going fast for the Canada Science and Technology Museum’s Orange shirt beading workshop on Sept. 27 [2025]! In honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, families can join Ojibway artist Kelly Nahwegahbow Marsolais to learn traditional beading techniques while reflecting on the meaning of the orange shirt and the legacy it represents. Recommended for ages 8 and up, workshops take place in Exploratek at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., with parents welcome to sit in and support their child.
On September 30 [2025], the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum invites everyone to a day of learning, reflection, and community in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Admission is free all day, and visitors can take part in the Indigenous-led Wahkohtowin Buffalo and Moose Hide Experience to help prepare hides while learning about buffalo science and the history of Turtle Island. There are also daily demonstrations, storytime, crafts, and a film, Singing Back the Buffalo, to deepen understanding and celebrate resilience. Don’t miss “Kindness Rocks,” a reflective art activity where you can paint kind words or designs as a reminder of respect, empathy, and shared purpose.
Blast off into adventure at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum during World Space Week, October 4–13 [2025]! Families can explore what it’s like to live and work in space through hands-on activities, from building and launching your own rocket to seeing gravity in action. Get an up-close look at the Canadarm and discover the challenges of daily life aboard the International Space Station. On October 5 [2025] at 1 p.m., join three space experts for a fun and fascinating talk where you can ask all your burning questions about space and learn about the exciting new book Daydreaming in the Solar System.
Celebrate Geodiversity Day at the Canada Science and Technology Museum on October 4 [2025] and uncover the amazing world beneath your feet! Meet experts from Natural Resources Canada’s Geological Survey of Canada, explore real rock, mineral, and fossil samples, and discover how geology shapes our daily lives. Families can enjoy hands-on activities throughout the day, from creating a personalized pet rock to testing your mineral knowledge through a scavenger hunt around the galleries – you might even win a small prize!
For two days only, explore the legendary aircraft of De Havilland Canada — from the rugged Twin Otter to the versatile Dash 8 at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. On October 8 and 9, [2025] meet pilots and specialists, dive into museum exhibits, and learn about Canada’s aerospace innovation. Plus, register for a chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime flight aboard a Twin Otter!
Celebrate Science Literacy Week from October 6 to 12 [2025] at the Canada Science and Technology Museum! Explore hands-on activities like coding workshops with Ozobot robots, take part in a strawberry DNA extraction workshop with scientists from Ottawa Bio Sci (registration required), step inside our inflatable planetarium for a journey through the cosmos, and enjoy thrilling science shows that bring Canada’s four seasons to life. Plus, on Friday, October 10 [2025], Ingenium curators will be offering special collection tours at the Ingenium Centre. Don’t miss this chance to spark curiosity, have fun, and see science come alive!
Discover the Orgamites in The Mighty Engine exhibition
Start your engines on October 18 and 19 [2025] at the Canada Science and Technology Museum with the launch of The Mighty Engine, presented by Canadian Blood Services in partnership with Ingenium. This immersive new exhibition introduces the Orgamites — fun, educational characters representing the body’s mighty organs — and invites children ages 5–12 to explore how their bodies work through hands-on activities and car engine metaphors. Designed to spark curiosity, compassion, and family conversations about health and organ donation, The Mighty Engine is a bold new way to learn, play, and be inspired this fall.
I am most interested in Science Literacy Week, (from the About page) which is …, Note: A link has been removed,
… a bold, national communications campaign, presented by the Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC) in partnership with educators, CASC members, libraries, government agencies and more. By coming together, our goal is to ignite curiosity, celebrate Canadian science, and deepen public engagement in STEM learning.
Through collaborative programming and support for partners from coast to coast to coast, Science Literacy Week connects people to the stories, science, and communities shaping our planet—and our future. The theme for Science Literacy Week 2025 is From Sea to Space. CASC, along with CASC members, educators and a growing ecosystem of STEM learning leaders from across Canada, will showcase the interconnectedness of life on Earth and encourage a shared vision of a sustainable, curiosity-driven future.
CASC is proud to partner with Science Pour Tous to connect, collaborate with, and convene Québec-based organizations, ensuring francophone leadership shines within this national initiative. Together, we will cultivate a vibrant network across Québec that aligns local strengths while spotlighting stories and innovators from coast to coast to coast and de la francophonie.
From Sea to Space logo art by Amy Jiao
If you scroll down the Science Literacy Week home page, you’ll find a map and list of participating Canadian science centres for the countrywide events being held October 6 – 12, 2025 which at this point are exclusively in Alberta and the eastern provinces. I hope the rest of the country gets on board soon.
A June 27, 2025 Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum) announcement (received via email and available for a limited time here), lists their July 2025 events,
Celebrate Canada Day with Ingenium!
This July 1 [2025], explore, discover, and play at all three Ingenium museums—where admission is FREE all day long!
Take your celebration to new heights at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum , with one of Ottawa’s most exciting Canada Day events featuring hands-on activities and a showcase of Canadian achievements in aviation and space. At the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, savour tasty samples made with strawberries, maple syrup, and honey, meet Canadian livestock, and explore the new Memories Are Made in the Kitchen exhibition. Over at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, dive into hands-on science challenges, dazzling demonstrations, and inspiring exhibitions that highlight the spirit of Canadian innovation.
Parking fees are in effect at all sites—plan to arrive early, as entry is first-come, first-served!
This summer, Ingenium is proud to participate in the Canada Strong Pass—a new Government of Canada initiative offering FREE admission to children and youth aged 17 and under at our three national museums. From June 20 to September 2, 2025, young visitors can explore the wonders of science, technology, and innovation at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and Canada Science and Technology Museum with complimentary admission. Visitors aged 18–24 can also enjoy 50% off discounted admission, making it easier than ever to engage with the stories, artifacts, and experiences that shape our nation’s scientific and technological heritage. To participate, simply purchase your tickets online or in-person at your favourite Ingenium museum!
Plus, score a great deal on unlimited discovery! This summer only, all new members will receive a 14-month membership for the price of a year. Only until September 2, 2025.
Opening to the public on Canada Day, Memories Are Made in the Kitchen is a welcoming and engaging new exhibition at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum. Discover the rich culinary diversity of Canada through personal stories, evocative smells, family recipes, and hands-on experiences. Enjoy imaginative play in the Lil’ Chefs Play Kitchen, created in partnership with Laurysen Kitchens, while the whole family explores how food connects us across generations and traditions.
This summer, all three Ingenium museums offer exciting programming for families and visitors of all ages! At the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, enjoy daily demonstrations and hands-on fun in the Demonstration Kitchen, where you can learn cooking techniques and try tasty recipes inspired by the flavours of summer. The Canada Aviation and Space Museum invites you to explore aviation like never before—from practicing marshalling signals to discovering the vital role of ground crews in keeping flights safe. Young visitors can let their imaginations soar in the Exploration Station, a space-themed play and learning area designed for playful discovery. Meanwhile, the Canada Science and Technology Museum celebrates curiosity with immersive dome films like Wilfred Buck’s Star Stories, vintage train rides, hands-on science in Science in the Sun, lighthouse visits, and guided tours of the Ingenium Centre’s extensive artifact collection. There’s something inspiring for everyone to discover this season!
See Earth like never before in the Earth in Focus Exhibition
Don’t miss Earth in Focus: Insights from Space, on now at the Canada Science and Technology Museum through September 1, 2025. Developed in partnership with the Canadian Space Agency, this visually stunning exhibition explores how images of Earth taken from space help scientists monitor our changing planet. Through striking photos and videos, discover how space-based data is used to tackle global challenges—from protecting the environment to responding to natural disasters—and gain a new appreciation for our shared, fragile world.
Discover Marvels of the museum—and collect to win!
Marvels of the museum is a fun, family-friendly experience offered daily at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. Join a museum guide for a lively spotlight on an iconic artifact—each session features fascinating stories, surprising facts, and a closer look at aviation history. After each demo, guests receive a special collectible trading card. Collect all five by September 1 for a chance to win an unforgettable helicopter ride! One card per family at each artifact spotlight.
Discover Welcome Wednesdays: FREE evenings at the farm!
This summer, enjoy free admission and parking on select Wednesday evenings at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum with Welcome Wednesdays. From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on July 23, visitors of all ages can explore the animal barns, exhibitions, and the Demonstration Kitchen—plus enjoy hands-on activities and engaging demonstrations that change each month. This initiative is part of Ingenium’s commitment to making the museum accessible to everyone, with additional supports available for groups upon request. Welcome Wednesdays are made possible thanks to the generous support of the Ingenium Foundationand its donors.
Benjamin Lopez Steven’s June 16, 2025 article for Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s (CBC) news online website highlights the launch for this first time pass,
Canadian Culture and Identity Minister Steven Guilbeault announced on Monday morning [June 16, 2025] that the federal government will launch the Canada Strong Pass later this week — a move to promote domestic tourism that makes Canada’s historic sites and parks free to visit and rail travel less expensive for young people.
“Canadians are proud of their country. Canada is strong and it’s yours to discover,” Guilbeault said at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa.
The pass, which launches on Friday and ends Sept. 2, doesn’t require registration or a physical card [emphasis mine]. Instead, the benefits will be available upon arrival at parks, national museums and when booking train tickets. Canadians and foreign tourists are eligible [emphasis mine].
In a news release, Canadian Heritage said the pass includes free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada and a 25 per cent discount on camping fees.
The pass also gives children aged 17 and under free admission to national museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum. For young adults aged 18 to 24, they get a 50 per cent discount.
Children aged 17 and under can also travel for free on Via Rail when accompanied by an adult. Young adults aged 18 to 24 get a 25 per cent discount on tickets.
Finally, children get free admission to select provincial and territorial museums and galleries, while young adults aged 18 to 24 get a 50 per cent discount.
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Guilbeault said the pass is “about discovering and reconnecting with nature, history and culture of this remarkable country we all share and are proud to call our own.”
Rebecca Bollwitt’s June 18, 2025 posting on her miss604.com blog highlights sites in BC after covering some of the same ground as the CBC article,
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You can use this map to find a National Historic Site or National Park in BC. Around Southwest BC, there’s the Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse in Victoria, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery in Steveston, and Fort Langley National Historic Site. There are no National Parks in the Lower Mainland, but the closest would be Pacific Rim National Park (Tofino/Ucluelet on Vancouver Island) or Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.
Yoho National Park – Miss604 Photo
British Columbia Locations
Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site
Fort Langley National Historic Site
Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site
Fort St. James National Historic Site
Gitwangak Battle Hill National Historic Site
Glacier National Park
Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site
A May 29, 2025 Ingenium, Canada’s museums of science and innovation (comprising the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum) announcement (received via email and available for a limited time here), profiles their June 2025 events, Note 1: I have put the announcements in date order (as best I can); Note 2: There’s a little more about ‘Ocean Week; at the end of this posting,
Celebrate World Ocean Week [June 1 – 8, 2025]
From interactive robots to augmented reality encounters, World Ocean Week at the Canada Science and Technology Museum is making waves! Dive into engaging, hands-on activities that bring ocean science to life—control ocean-themed robots in Exploratek and experience the awe-inspiring scale of marine life through a whale-sized AR adventure. Young explorers can also join the Ocean Explorer Scavenger Hunt, discovering ocean-themed artifacts hidden throughout the galleries. With Canada surrounded by three oceans, there’s no better place to celebrate our connection to the sea. Join us for a week of discovery, play, and ocean inspiration!
Coming June 1 [2025] to the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Lii buflo: A Métis way of life explores the profound connection between the Métis people and the buffalo. This traveling exhibition highlights the historic relationship, spiritual significance, and ongoing conservation efforts to protect these majestic animals. Through ten interpretive panels featuring the artwork of Métis artist Jesse Gouchey, visitors will discover stories of Métis stewardship and tradition. Developed in collaboration with a Métis advisory committee, the exhibit offers a powerful opportunity to engage with Métis history, culture, and community voices.
Discover the hidden treasures of Canadian innovation at Doors Open Ottawa
Step behind the scenes of Canadian science and innovation! On June 7 [2025], Ingenium is proud to participate in Doors Open Ottawa by welcoming visitors to the Ingenium Centre—a state-of-the-art facility designed to house and maintain Canada’s scientific treasures.
Home to over 150,000 artifacts and 100,000 library and archival items, the Ingenium Centre preserves everything from steam locomotives and tractors to vintage tech, seeds, and scientific instruments. During this special event, you’ll have the chance to explore these national treasures up close, uncover fascinating stories from Canada’s past, and meet the experts who care for them.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience one of the world’s most accessible and advanced museum collection facilities!
Admission is FREE! Book your timed-entry tickets now.
On June 25 [2025], visitors of all ages are invited to enjoy FREE evening access to the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Explore the animal barns, exhibitions, and Demonstration Kitchen—all included with your visit. Each evening features hands-on activities and engaging demonstrations, with something new to discover every time. This initiative is part of Ingenium’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion and is made possible through the support of the Ingenium Foundation and its donors.
Did you know Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen is part of the Artemis II crew, set to orbit the Moon in 2026? This historic mission will be the first crewed test flight of NASA’s Orion spacecraft and marks the first time a Canadian will travel to the Moon. Visitors to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum can explore a new video projection celebrating this milestone. Watch Destination Moon to learn more about Artemis II and Canada’s vital role in lunar exploration—helping pave the way for deeper space missions. Running throughout our opening hours, this short video is included in your museum admission.
The May 29, 2025 Ingenium announcement includes something that’s not an event but seemingly as invitation to create your art/science experience, Note: I substituted the image used by Ingenium in their announcement with the one used by the National Gallery of Canada,
Subscribe to the National Gallery of Canada’s newsletter
Looking for more ways to stay inspired? The National Gallery of Canada’s newsletter is the perfect complement to Ingenium’s. Featuring the latest exhibitions, inspiring stories, exciting events and updates from the Gallery, your connection to art starts here. Stay in the know and get closer to art with every issue.
United Nations (UN) World Oceans Day 2025 is being celebrated on June 8, 2025 concurrently with the last day of Ocean Week Canada being held across the country from coast to coast to coast from June 1 – 8, 2025. Lastly, there is the UN’s 2025 World Ocean Week, which can be found on a webpage identified as World Oceans Day. The naming convention for the ‘day’ and the two different ‘weeks’ is a little bewildering to me.
Ingenium is the ‘portfolio’ name and governing organization for the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and its January 2025 newsletter (received via email and visible here) lists a number of museum(s) events for the new year, i.e., January/February 2025,
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Uncover Ingenium’s Hidden Treasures
Discover the hidden treasures of the Ingenium Centre with the relaunch of behind-the-scenes tours starting January 18, 2025. Explore one of the world’s most unique collections of science and innovation artifacts, and gain insight into the meticulous work of preserving and showcasing this national heritage. Perfect for families and curious minds alike, these guided tours offer a rare opportunity to see remarkable objects not on public display. Online tickets will be available for purchase as of January 15, 2025. Plan your visit and uncover the stories behind the collection!
Mark your calendars! Registration for Ingenium’s 2025 Summer Camps opens soon. Secure a spot for exciting, hands-on adventures: Sonart camps at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum open January 8, Canada Science and Technology Museum camps on February 4, and Canada Agriculture and Food Museum camps on February 5. For the latter two camps, families will be able to input their profiles in advance – watch out for an email in January with more detail. Treat your kids to a summer of discovery and fun!
Starting February 2025, join Science for tots at the Canada Science and Technology Museum! Designed for children aged 0–24 months and their parents, this four-session series invites you to explore science together through play and wonder. Spark curiosity through engaging activities that combine fun and discovery. Registration opens in January , so don’t miss this opportunity to share the joy of science with your little one!
From January 8 to February 28, 2025, experience Around the World at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum! Enjoy daily demonstrations featuring cows from different countries, wool carding, pig facts, sea monster crafts, then meet Léonard the alpaca. Don’t miss the Demonstration Kitchen, where global recipes and tasty samples (while supplies last) take your taste buds on a journey! Perfect for all ages, it’s a fun and educational farm adventure.
Bridging the Digital Gap: A Parent’s Guide to Online Safety
Empower yourself to navigate the digital world with your child! Join us for an online workshop on January 16 [2024] (English) or January 23 [2024] (French) to learn how to protect your child’s online safety, understand popular online games, and set healthy digital habits. Discover essential tools to monitor your child’s phone and online activities while fostering open communication.
Crépu: Our DNA is a groundbreaking event celebrating the rich cultural significance of Black hair created by Hors Pair Social and The Moving Art Gallery. Through photography, film, discussion, and performance, this artistic exploration delves into the ways Black people use hair as a medium of self-expression, historical preservation, and resilience. Join us for a captivating journey that includes live hair care demos, a hair art runway, musical and spoken word performances, and a museum presentation. And as a special bonus, your ticket to Crépu: Our DNA grants you free family admission to the Canada Science and Technology Museum in February 2025!
