A special ‘After Dark’ event is bringing magic and illusions to Vancouver’s Science World

Science World After Dark is always a magical experience for adults who want to continue learning (but make it fun), but this time around, the popular 19+ night is getting an extra sprinkle of whimsy.

What to know about the Magic Edition of Science World After Dark

Will there be live magicians?

In a word, yes. In fact, some of Vancouver’s top magicians will be in attendance for the Science of Sleight, where science becomes spellbinding, and the human boundaries of illusion and misdirection are pushed.

If you’ve ever seen a magic act and thought, “How is this physically possible?” you’ll definitely pick up a few insider tricks here.

The night is all about digging into the science behind the sleight of hand, which refers to magicians’ deft, quick hand movements to manipulate objects right before our eyes. It’s crazy to think that all that grandeur and showmanship boils down to very specific hand gestures, but that’s what this After Dark edition explores.

So whether you’ve always wanted to learn magician secrets or just want to enjoy all of the live events and exhibits at Science World with a drink in hand, now is your opportunity.

You can uncover the secrets of perception in the Puzzles & Illusions gallery on the first floor, then feel the pull of physics in Eureka, where real forces create seemingly impossible effects.

Attending magicians include two-time World Champion of Magic Shawn Farquhar, who has been entertaining global audiences with his talents for over 30 years.

Alex Zander is a magician who’s also all about playful, mind-bending interaction, leaving audiences wondering where reality ends and magic begins.

Finally, Billy Hsueh has spent the last 20 years performing his blend of magic and comedy internationally, rounding out a trio of talented magicians at Science World.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are available online for $40 a pop, and include access to all of Science World’s current galleries and exhibits.

This also includes the Soccer & Technology from the FIFA Museum exhibition, which is in its final days and wraps up on Sept. 7, 2026.

When is the next Science World After Dark event?

Ready to experience the science of magic for yourself? Mark your calendars for Wednesday, Sept. 2, between 6 and 10 p.m.

After Dark: Science of Sleight – Magic Edition

When: Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026
Time: 6 to 10 p.m.
Where: 1455 Quebec St. 
Cost: $40 per person

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