Join us on Saturday, June 8, for Curious Histories Fest: Color Your World, a day of fun inspired by our BOLD: Color from Test Tube to Textile exhibition.

About First Fridays

Spark your curiosity while exploring the exhibits after hours! First Fridays bring together a myriad of activities covering everyday science, historical oddities, and everything in between. Grab your friends, and kick off an evening of discovery, surprise, and a little nerdy fun.

First Fridays at the Institute are always free and open to the public. Attendees will receive a 10% discount to National Mechanics restaurant.

More events

gray bird with blue beak and red feet, on a tree perch
June 8, 2026
Science on Tap

The Galápagos Islands: Evolutionary Insights

Travel to the Galápagos Islands with science educator Matt Downing, who spent a year navigating the archipelago as a certified naturalist guide in 1978.

man touching a museum object with both hands
June 9, 2026
Museum Programs & Activities

From Nature to Nylons: A Touch-Based History of Textiles

This private learning experience combines a personally guided exploration of select gallery exhibits and a hands-on study of objects.

picnickers with frozen desserts
June 13, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Celebration of Summer

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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