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 and artists, to scientists and crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for “makers” to show their hobbies, experiments, and 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

An illustration of a firework or explosive device emitting sparks and flames in different directions.
April 10, 2026
Museum Programs & Activities

SOLD OUT: Launch Party! A History of Fireworks Opening Celebration

Join the waitlist to celebrate the opening of our latest exhibition.

one-page ad, "Important Facts About pH for Water & Sewage Operators" 1950s
April 11, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: April Showers

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

Egyptian gallery at the Penn Museum
April 13, 2026
Science on Tap

Transforming the Dead: The Art, Ritual, and Science of Egyptian Embalming

Egyptologist Jen Wegner explores how ancient embalmers worked to transform the dead for life after death.

    Republish

    Copy the above HTML to republish this content. We have formatted the material to follow our guidelines, which include our credit requirements. Please review our full list of guidelines for more information. By republishing this content, you agree to our republication requirements.