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
From Nature to Nylons: A Touch-Based History of Textiles
This touch-based tour offers guests a private learning experience that combines a personally guided exploration of select gallery exhibits and a hands-on study of objects from our collections.
Othmer Library Tour
Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!
Film Screening: Passfire
This original documentary by Veverka Bros. explores the world’s most spectacular pyrotechnics, the artisans who create them, and the rich cultural traditions they represent.