Join us for special gallery tours and hands-on activities as part of Welcome America’s Philly Holiday Experience.

Science is all around us . . . literally! Explore the scientific marvels woven into the fabric of our daily existence, unraveling the story of our clothing’s evolution through time, and envisioning the scientific horizons that lie ahead. This family-friendly program explores the fascinating world of dyes and textiles.

Our fun, interactive activities are designed for science lovers of all ages. Try your hand at our fashion sketching activity and take an up-close look at interesting items in our handling collection relating to the colorful history of natural and synthetic dyes! 

During your visit, you can also check out our themed “drop-in” tours at 11:30am and 2pm. We will feature our “Materials for the Masses” tour, which explores the history of modern materials, with a special focus on game-changing synthetic textiles such as Nylon, Lycra, Spandex, and more. Witness how these fibers transformed our world, from fashion to medicine, spanning wartime to peacetime and beyond.

More events

illustration of a knight on horseback
July 11, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Revolutionary Science

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

An illustration of a firework or explosive device emitting sparks and flames in different directions.
July 11, 2026
Free

Ben Franklin Bridge 100th Anniversary Celebration

Institute staff will be on hand to celebrate 100 years of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge with fun, fireworks-themed activities.

1931 movie still of Dracula
July 13, 2026
Science on Tap

Bram Stoker and the American Vampire

The Mütter Museum’s Jo D’Avella will discuss the American vampire: exploring Bram Stoker‘s Dracula, medical anxieties, body decomposition, and the American Vampire Panic.

    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.