CWSF Awards Ceremony: What to Expect
The Awards Ceremony is one of the most anticipated events of the Canada-Wide Science Fair, bringing together all participants to celebrate the remarkable achievements of young scientists from across the country. Here's everything finalists and parents need to know about this exciting culmination of the CWSF experience.
Event Details
- Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
- Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM ADT
- Location: Aitken University Centre (AUC), University of New Brunswick campus
- Dress Code: Semi-formal/business attire recommended (see "What to Wear" below)
For Finalists
What to Expect
As a finalist, you'll attend the Awards Ceremony with your regional delegation. Nearly two million dollars in awards, medals, scholarships, and special prizes will be presented during this celebratory event. This is your moment to shine and be recognized alongside your peers for the incredible work you've done.
Before the Ceremony
- Your delegation will have dinner together before heading to the venue
- Your delegate(s) will provide specific instructions about meeting times and locations
- Ensure you're dressed appropriately before dinner, as there may not be time to change afterward
During the Ceremony
- You'll be seated with your regional delegation in a designated section
- When awards are announced, winners will be called to the stage
- Photographers will capture these moments, so be ready for your close-up!
- Remember to be respectful and supportive of all award recipients
What to Wear
While there's no strict dress code, most finalists choose to dress in semi-formal attire for this special occasion:
- Business or dress clothes (suit/tie, dress, skirt and blouse, etc.)
- Traditional cultural attire is also welcome and encouraged
- Comfortable but nice shoes (you may need to walk up stairs to the stage)
Note: You don't need to purchase special clothes specifically for this event. Wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable while maintaining a respectful appearance.For Parents, Family, and Supporters
Attending In Person
If you wish to attend the Awards Ceremony in person:
- Tickets Required: All non-CWSF participants (including parents, family members, and the general public) must purchase tickets
- Ticket Availability: A limited number of tickets will be available for purchase starting May 1, 2025
- Purchase Platform: Tickets can be purchased at shop.youthscience.ca
- Seating: There will be a separate designated seating area for visitors
We recommend purchasing tickets early, as they tend to sell out quickly due to high demand.
Watching Remotely
If you cannot attend in person, the entire ceremony will be live-streamed:
- Platform: Youth Science Canada YouTube channel
- Access: No ticket or special login required
- Reminder: Subscribe to the channel and turn on notifications at youthscience.ca/youtube
- Recording: The ceremony recording will remain available afterward for those in different time zones
Post-Ceremony
- Due to the structured nature of the event, there will be limited opportunity for interaction with finalists immediately following the ceremony
- Finalists will return to campus with their delegations after the event
- Please coordinate with your child in advance if you plan to briefly meet after the ceremony
Meet the Winners Event
The following day (Friday, June 6), there will be a special "Meet the Winners" panel discussion:
- Format: Reni Barlow, Executive Director of Youth Science Canada, hosts a conversation with the Platinum and Best Project award winners
- Audience: This in-person event is exclusively for CWSF participants
- Live Stream: The session will be live-streamed on the Youth Science Canada YouTube channel for parents, family, and the public to enjoy
Tips for an Enjoyable Experience
- Arrive Early: Seating begins 30 minutes before the ceremony
- Stay for the Entire Event: The ceremony celebrates all winners, not just the major awards
- Be Supportive: Regardless of the outcome, remember that being a CWSF finalist is already an extraordinary achievement
- Capture the Moment: Official photos will be taken, but feel free to take your own memories (without flash) if attending in person
- Celebrate Afterward: Consider planning a special way to celebrate your finalist's achievement after they return home, regardless of whether they receive an award
The Awards Ceremony is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the hard work, creativity, and scientific excellence of Canada's brightest young minds. Whether you're attending in person or watching remotely, it promises to be an inspiring and memorable event.
Related Articles
CWSF Participation Overview: What You Need to Know
Congratulations on being selected as a finalist for the Canada-Wide Science Fair! This is an incredible achievement and the beginning of an unforgettable experience. To help you prepare for this exciting event, here's an overview of essential ...What awards and prizes are at the CWSF?
As a finalist for Canada-Wide Science Fair, you will compete for a range of awards and prizes that recognize your hard work, creativity, and scientific expertise. Here are some examples of the awards and prizes that are available: Gold, Silver, and ...Frequently Asked Questions for CWSF Finalists
Congratulations on your selection as a Canada-Wide Science Fair finalist! As you prepare for this exciting experience, you likely have many questions. Below are answers to the most common questions finalists and their families have about ...How to Complete Your CWSF Finalist Registration in the YSC Portal
Welcome to the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) registration guide. This article will provide you with all the necessary steps to successfully register as a finalist in the YSC Portal. Whether you are new to the system or returning for another ...How am I judged at the Canada-Wide Science Fair?
Criteria and process As a CWSF finalist, you will have the opportunity to present your project to a group of judges who will evaluate your work based on the CWSF Judging Rubric. Judging takes place on Monday and Tuesday of the CWSF week and is a ...