CRAG Open Day

A look back: the first CRAG Open Day (2017)

On the occasion of the Fascination of Plants Day, in 2017 the Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) organised its first CRAG Open Day. This event, aimed mainly at family and friends of the staff, offered the opportunity to discover the centre from the inside and learn about the research carried out at CRAG. The success of the event and the enthusiasm of visitors laid the foundation for continuing to open the centre to society in future editions.

CRAG Open Day 2025: a morning to discover the science that transforms agriculture

On October 4, 2025, CRAG reopened its doors to the public with an expanded format designed for all ages. More than 180 people visited the centre to learn first-hand about the research in plant and animal genomics and understand how it contributes to global challenges such as sustainability, food security and climate change.

A full programme of activities

Throughout the morning, visitors took part in a wide range of outreach and participatory activities. The guided tours of laboratories, greenhouses and research facilities sold out days in advance, including an English-language tour for international attendees. The science talks in the Auditorium and the mini scientific talks outdoors offered accessible explanations on topics such as plant microbiomes, GMOs, genetic improvement and other research lines at the centre.

The family workshops were very well received by children, who experimented with pigments, extracted DNA from vegetables and enjoyed creative activities in the children’s area. Meanwhile, the networking space facilitated interaction between students and CRAG researchers, especially PhD candidates who shared their experience in scientific careers.

A collective project

The CRAG Open Day 2025 was made possible thanks to the involvement of more than 40 volunteers and the support of the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT) and the Barcelona City Council. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by a food truck and a science monologue by Big Van Ciencia, which closed the event with humour and outreach.

A day with a vision for the future

The CRAG Open Day 2025 reinforced the centre’s commitment to scientific outreach and citizen engagement. The high level of interest and the very positive feedback from participants highlight the importance of these initiatives and strengthen the intention to continue organising Open Days to share our science with the whole community.