First Friday: Science "Down the Shore!"
This First Friday, go “down the shore” with an evening of summer-themed science!
We’ll look at the powerful effects of UV light and the chemistry of sunscreen, chill out with the technology of portable coolers, and explore the science behind thermometers and barometers (crucial tools to help pick your perfect beach day). We’ll also take a fashion-forward journey through historical swimsuits and the synthetic fibers that keep us active! Enjoy hands-on crafts, see a pop-up from our library archives, and learn how to make the most of your next vacation.
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.
More events
AI and Crowdsourcing for Archival Journal Transcription
Academy of Natural Sciences librarian Briana Giasullo will discuss her organization’s use of artificial intelligence and crowdsourcing to extract text from field journals and notebooks.
Gender Minorities in the Sciences Panel
Scientists share their experiences and strategies for advancing equity and inclusion in STEM across gender-diverse communities.
Stories of Science: CollegeFest 2026
All Philadelphia-area college students are invited to visit us during CollegeFest, Campus Philly’s annual “Welcome to Philadelphia” celebration!