Nerdy or not, if you have ever wondered about the why, how, who, what, when and where of almost anything, the inaugural Ultimo science festival is where you should be from August 16 to 20.

For the first time, as part of National Science Week celebrations, the Powerhouse Museum, University of Technology, Sydney, Sydney Institute of Technology TAFE and the ABC, will team up to make Ultimo a hub of scientific discovery and marvels.

Amazing science events will stretch for more than a kilometre along Harris Street with activities lasting five days and nights.

The four Ultimo partners have serious scientific credentials, including cutting edge scientific research, technology, engineering, design innovation, education, communication, history and entertainment.

Festival spokesperson Jesse Shore said the program will include science tours, demonstrations and activities in the brand-new UTS Science building and TAFE's Fashion, Food and Floristry building.

"There will be outdoor displays including steam engines along the Ultimo walkway connecting the precinct to Central Sydney Railway Station," Dr Shore said. "As well as lectures on a host of science topics, engineering workshops and tours, exhibitions, concerts and forums on topical science issues at UTS, the ABC Studios and the Powerhouse Museum."

The festival will explore, among other things, forensic science, sustainable technologies and the relationships between design, fashion and science.

There will be a "Murder on the Ultimo Express" forensic science tour and competition as well as a 'Speed meet and greet a geek' social event.

While at night the institutions including will become centre of laughter, science discovery – and learning.

Evening events include:
Science on tap: Marijuana Myths and Truths Wed 16 Aug 6-8pm, UTS Glasshouse Bar
Why Science and Religion are driving us crazy Margaret Wertheim Thurs 17 Aug 6-8pm, Powerhouse Museum
The Great Big Science Gig – yes it is possible to put science to music UTS Sat 19 Aug 7:30 – 9:00pm UTS University Hall
Café Scientific asks the Biggest Questions in the Universe with UK Physics superstar Dr Brian Cox Sun 20 Aug 5-7pm UTS Glasshouse Bar

Weekend events include:
Family Fun activities at the ABC, UTS Science Building, TAFE Muse Gallery and the Powerhouse Museum
Workshops on Sustainability and drawing from the natural world
Sun 20 Aug 2pm – 3pm 'Master matter blaster and the beginning of time: what makes up the universe?' Dr Brian Cox UTS University Hall

Please check the website for details including dates, times and booking information for specific activities.

This first-time science event in Ultimo has been made possible with funding from the Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training, the City of Sydney and the Office of Science and Medical Research.