NI Maths Fest 2026 is returning to Derry, taking place at the Foyle Arena on Thursday 22 and Friday 23 January.

Following the success of last year’s festival, the free two-day event will welcome pupils from more than 35 schools across Northern Ireland, alongside parents, educators, STEM organisations and local businesses. Almost 1,200 pupils, teachers and volunteers have already registered, exceeding last year’s attendance of 850.

NI Maths Fest is designed to make maths engaging, practical and accessible. Through interactive activities, talks and workshops, children and families will explore how maths connects to everyday life, helping to build confidence and reduce anxiety around the subject.

The festival will run over two days. Day one is open to primary schools, while day two welcomes the wider public, including post-primary students and parents.

This year’s theme, Maths Across Cultures, will take attendees on a journey through time, exploring how ancient civilisations including Egypt, India, Greece and China influenced the mathematics we still use today. Activities will include hands-on problem solving, traditional mathematical games and opportunities to experiment with early counting systems.

Sumeeta Gupta, Centre Director of Foyle Kumon Study Centre and Director of NI Maths Fest, said:
“As a not-for-profit event, NI Maths Fest is about showing that maths is more than numbers. By exploring maths across cultures, we want young people to see it as a shared human story that builds confidence, curiosity and real-world skills.”

The festival is supported by a wide range of local businesses, professional services firms and education partners, who will deliver engaging workshops and interactive learning experiences across the two days.

NI Maths Fest 2026 takes place on Thursday 22 and Friday 23 January at the Foyle Arena.
To register or find out more, visit www.nimathsfest.co.uk.