Fireworks Tour
What’s the difference between a firecracker and a rocket—and how do they work? Why have fireworks come to represent events as diverse as the Chinese New Year, Italian saint days, and the 4th of July?
Find out by taking a tour of our Flash! Bang! Boom! A History of Fireworks exhibition, which explores the fascinating international history of fireworks: from the chemistry of how they go “boom,” the factory laborers who churn them out, and the pyrotechnicians who light the match, to the migrants and business leaders who made them famous, and the innovators lighting up a new future.
Drop-in tours are free and no reservations are necessary.
Featured image: Colored print of Japanese fireworks displays by the Hirayama Fireworks Company, from Pyrotechnics: The History and Art of Firework Making, 1922.
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Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!
Red, White, & Blue To-Do
The Science History Institute is one of 23 museums, historic sites, and local businesses in Philadelphia’s Historic District coming together for a day of star-spangled festivities in the nation’s most historic square mile.
American Chemical Society Webinar: Flash! Bang! Boom!
Join curator Jesse Smith for a special presentation exploring how fireworks have illuminated humanity’s biggest moments across time and around the globe.