From 17 to 19 September, the Pavilhão de Portugal in Lisbon hosted GIMM Fest 2026. Dedicated to microbes, this year’s edition brought together researchers and the public to explore the smallest forms of life and some of science’s biggest questions. Revisit some of the highlights from these three days in the festival wrap-up video.

The first two days were dedicated to the scientific programme, with talks, discussions and the sharing of research on microbes and their role in health, the environment and society. Among the participants was Nobel Prize winner Charles Rice, in a meeting that brought together different fields of knowledge and perspectives on the questions that may shape future research.

On 19 September, the festival opened its doors to everyone, with free admission and a programme of interactive activities, experiments and conversations about science. It was a day to explore, experiment and ask questions, while engaging directly with researchers and the work they do.

Throughout GIMM Fest, curiosity was the starting point for bringing science closer to people. More than sharing discoveries, the festival created space to talk about what we still do not know, hear new perspectives and show how research connects with our everyday lives.

GIMM would like to thank all speakers, guests, partners, volunteers, teams and participants who helped make these three days possible.

Watch the video and revisit some of the moments that shaped GIMM Fest 2026.