Another highly successful edition of the Science Picnic of Polish Radio and the Copernicus Science Centre is behind us. This unique celebration of science attracted over 30,000 participants to the PGE Narodowy stadium! Our stand, located in the Health Zone, enjoyed immense interest – we were visited by crowds of visitors of all ages, from the youngest explorers to adult biology enthusiasts.

This year, our scientists prepared a rich program that brought the mysteries of biology and neuroscience closer to the public in an accessible way. In the section dedicated to "How the brain controls our lives," we revealed to our guests the fascinating world of cooperation between neurons and glial cells. Real animal brains displayed in jars attracted great curiosity among both children and adults, allowing them to better understand the structure of this extraordinary organ. There was also plenty of space for educational fun at the stand: eager visitors tackled brain teasers and quizzes, earning commemorative stickers and stamps, while at the creative table they crafted their own nerve cells. For the youngest ones, we prepared a plastic arts corner with coloring pages and paper brain hats, as well as an exciting movement game called "Toss into the Cortex," where players can learn about the functions of different cortical areas. Older participants could also learn how researchers register brain activity using modern imaging methods such as EEG or fMRI. Furthermore, all participants had the opportunity to ask neurobiologists questions about topics that interested them.

As part of the "Mysterious life of rodents" presentation, participants could learn how mice and rats communicate with each other, how they respond to new stimuli, and how their welfare is managed in laboratory conditions. This was further illustrated by displays of professional cages, photographs, videos, and workshops on folding origami paper mice.

The success of this event would not have been possible without the immense commitment and passion of the entire team. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who dedicated their time to preparing the presentation and providing wonderful care to the visitors.

Participants in the Picnic included: Magdalena Rutkowska, Wiktoria Laprus, Magdalena Sobień, Dominika Malińska, Aniela Brykała, Natalia Roszkowska, Nupur Ravindra Mahadeokar, Anna Redeł, Maria Żarska, Zosia Sobiesiak, Maria Sygidus, Anna Szukało, Anna Radkiewicz, Zuzanna Kita, Weronika Herdzina, Nina Bander, Marta Paź, Jakub Wiśniewski, Marta Agnieszczak, Hanna Górecka, Karolina Zielińska, Katarzyna Jaślan, and Daria Gospodarek.

The organizers of the entire venture were: Marta Agnieszczak, Kinga Kosyl-Dzik, and Kinga Szydłowska.

We also direct special thanks for invaluable organizational support to the Administration and Accounting Department, especially to Mr. Daniel Sosnowski and Ms. Dorota Chylińska.

We also thank all the guests who visited our stand in such large numbers for their positive energy, curiosity, and inspiring conversations.

See you next year!