O Chemis-tree, O Chemis-tree! (family)
What it is
From the bang of a cracker and sparkle of fairy lights to fragrant warming spices and the taste of Christmas dinner, the festive season is a feast for the senses. But how much chemistry is hiding behind it all?
Join chemist and science communicator Josh Smalley for a festive journey packed with demonstrations, experiments and the fascinating history behind some of our favourite Christmas traditions. Create dazzling silver-mirror baubles, see the evolution of tinsel, explore the science of glow sticks and, of course, ignite a Christmas pudding!
Along the way, we’ll hang each festive favourite on our very own ‘chemis-tree’, uncovering the chemistry behind Christmas as we go.
This is a theatre event for children and adults to enjoy together. We recommend our family talks for children aged 7–13, though they can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
Questions
When does O Chemis-tree, O Chemis-tree! (family) start and end?
O Chemis-tree, O Chemis-tree! (family) runs Monday, 21 December 2026, 14:30 until 15:45.
Where is O Chemis-tree, O Chemis-tree! (family)?
O Chemis-tree, O Chemis-tree! (family) takes place at The Royal Institution of Great Britain, 21 Albemarle Street, London, London.
How much are tickets for O Chemis-tree, O Chemis-tree! (family)?
Tickets for O Chemis-tree, O Chemis-tree! (family) cost from £7.75 on the official ticket shop.
Also at The Royal Institution of Great Britain
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