Even if you weren’t jazzed about the subject in high school, the WSF’s 2013 lineup of industry innovators (such as the man who codiscovered the structure of DNA, James Watson) and household names (Emmy Award–winning M*A*S*H star Alan Alda, for instance) will get even staunch right-brainers enthused about science. The fest consists of around 50 discussions and demonstrations, covering topics that range from insect courtship to the biotechnology of beer—because who doesn’t like to learn about sex and booze? Don’t miss “Ending the Epidemic: Science Advances on AIDS” (Fri 31 10–11:30am; $15–$30), a discussion on new breakthroughs in attacking the virus, followed by a sneak preview of the New-York Historical Society’s new exhibit, “AIDS in New York: The First Five Years”; and “The Scientific Kitchen,” a three-part series that explains the chemistry behind baking a pie (Fri 31 7–9pm; $40), the crystal networks that make up ice cream (Sat 1 at 3pm; $40) and the microbiology behind so-stinky-it’s-good fromage (Sat 1 at 7pm; $40).
There’s a festival this week for nearly every mood and fancy—and it doesn’t hurt that many of them include free things to do. Here are our top picks.