Get ready to travel back in time to the fabulous 1980s! Whether you rocked the Jazzercise leotard or spent hours trying to solve the Rubik’s Cube, we’ve got something for everyone. 

Come dressed in your best 80s attire—think leg warmers, scrunchies, and hairspray galore. Join in on the ultimate 80s scavenger hunt through our museum, then explore the science of vinyl records and VHS tapes with our educators. In addition to having one of those world famous 3-D puzzle cubes on display, other throwbacks include a Teddy Ruxpin mechanical toy and the Sony Walkman.

This is the night to celebrate the vibrant, funky, and totally tubular decade we all know and love, and the surprising science behind it all. 

About First Fridays

Spark your curiosity while exploring the exhibits after hours! First Fridays bring together a myriad of activities covering everyday science, historical oddities, and everything in between. Grab your friends, and kick off an evening of discovery, surprise, and a little nerdy fun.

First Fridays at the Institute are always free and open to the public. Attendees will receive a 10% discount to National Mechanics restaurant.


Featured image: Teddy Ruxpin Mechanical Animal, 1985.

More events

August Kekule, Catalyst of the Chemical Revolution. Jerry Allison, oil on canvas, ca. 1981.
August 10, 2026
Science on Tap

Science on Tap, Untapped: Scientific Revolutions

At this semiquincentennial special edition of our science café, we explore revolutions in science. Come eat, drink, and learn about revolutionary moments in scientific advancements, from the study of diatoms to our understanding of dinosaurs.

hand with manicured nails holding nylon thread in a spool
August 11, 2026
Museum Programs & Activities

From Nature to Nylons: A Touch-Based History of Textiles

This private learning experience combines a personally guided exploration of select gallery exhibits and a hands-on study of objects.

Book cart decorated as a woolly mammoth
August 12, 2026
Free

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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