July 4th at the Science History Institute
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
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!
Gender Minorities in the Sciences Panel
Scientists share their experiences and strategies for advancing equity and inclusion in STEM across gender-diverse communities.
Fireworks Tour
Join our museum educators for a drop-in tour of our special exhibition on the fascinating history and science of pyrotechnics.