The pandemic has prompted questions about the role and value of science festivals (referred to as conferences in the U.S.) and how to make them effective, engaging, and safe. This publication discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on science festivals and the future of science communication. Each section is written by a science festival leader or organizer, exploring topics such as whether and how to transition to virtual events and what science festivals might look like in a post-pandemic world. While the content is focused primarily on Poland and Europe, many of the ideas apply to science events around the world and consider the value of such events more generally. The document was prepared by the University of Silesia in Katowice as part of the 1st Forum of Polish Science Festival Organisers, with financial support from the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education and cooperation from the European Science Engagement Association (EUSEA).