For many science-loving kids in the U.K., at this time of year the only thing that can compare to the excitement of Santa's arrival is the annual Royal Institution Christmas Lectures. If you've not heard of this spectacular showcase of science, it is an iconic event that has taken place each year at London's Royal Institution since 1825.
Initiated by English physicist Michael Faraday to showcase the wonders of science to children at a time when organized education was scarce, every year highlights a different topic. Previous Christmas lectures have introduced budding scientists to concepts such as natural philosophy, the rudiments of astronomy and the chemical history of a candle.
