Start your 4th of July celebration at the Science History Institute by checking out our Flash! Bang! Boom! A History of Fireworks exhibition to learn about the science and history behind the beautiful displays you’ll see that night.

We’ll have family-friendly activities and a crafts station available throughout the day, including

  • kid-friendly activities and crafts, including creating a representation of the earliest fireworks, which used bamboo and black powder (explosives not included!)
  • special handling collection items, including real inert firework shells, exploded mortars, and historic instruments used in the science of pyrotechnics
  • a memory wall to share your favorite fireworks memories

Admission is free and reservations are not required.

Please contact us in advance for groups larger than 12. See our Group & School Tours page for more information.

More events

August 26, 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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August 29, 2026
Drop-In Tours

Stuff from Your House Highlights Tour

Join our museum educators as we explore the scientific principles and history behind everyday household objects.

detail of flyer for History on the Street event
August 29, 2026
Free

History on the Street: Back to School Edition

Kick off your school year with museums, cultural organizations, and community partners sharing their resources through a day of fun and discovery. 

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