The Science History Institute’s new exhibition, Flash! Bang! Boom! A History of Fireworks, explores the sparkling and explosive history of fireworks. With objects ranging from historic rare books and fine art, to consumer catalogs and the latest pyrotechnic technologies, this exhibition helps visitors understand the history and chemistry of fireworks in the context of our nation’s 250th anniversary.

Stop by our table to learn more about the exhibition, see examples of some of the featured fine art, and make some of your own with rainbow scratch paper!

What is Maker Faire?

Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these “makers” to show hobbies, experiments, projects.

We call it the Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth – a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness.

Glimpse the future and get inspired!

Tickets are required.

Featured image from Pyrotechnics: The History and Art of Firework Making, 1922.

More events

Book cart decorated as a woolly mammoth
March 25, 2026
Free

Othmer Library Tour

Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!

greyscale image of women drinking tea with caption, "Princess & Fairy, or, The Wonders of Nature
March 28, 2026
Museum Programs & Activities

Drink the Delaware

Join the Science History Institute at Drink the Delaware and explore the science and history of tea!

postcard showing a drawing of Rachel Carson's grave with birds and a squirrel
March 28, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Celebrating Women’s History

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

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