Museum HoursWed–Fri: 10am–5pm | SAT, June 14: 11am–4pm

KABOOM! POP! CRACK!

Join us next spring for an explosive history of fireworks!

With objects ranging from historic rare books to the latest pyrotechnic technologies, this exhibition features a globe-spinning story that spans centuries. Explore the science of celebrations as we mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, right here in Old City Philadelphia.

This event is FREE, but registration is required. Signups will open in early 2026!

Featured image: Panorama of the National Firework Display at Hyde Park, 19th July, 1919, colorized illustration from Pyrotechnics: The History and Art of Firework Making, 1922.

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illustration of a man holding a very tall sandwich on a plate
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Join us for a delicious daylong celebration of food science and fun, RAIN or SHINE! And it’s all FREE!

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June 18, 2025
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Othmer Library Tour

Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!

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June 21, 2025
For Families

Stories of Science: Party in the Lab

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

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