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

oil painting of an alchemist working beside a window
November 12, 2026
Free

Art of Alchemy Self-Guided Visit

Step into the age of alchemy and explore works in our new permanent exhibition, Fire and Gold: The Art of Alchemy (1450–1850).

outdoor photo of Ben Feringa in a shirt and blazer
November 13, 2026
Programs, Lectures & Talks

Ullyot Lecture and Award: Ben Feringa

SOLD OUT! The 2016 Nobel co-laureate in chemistry will present this year’s lecture, “The Art of Building Small,” followed by a Q&A session and award presentation.

Color print advertisement for the Dow Chemical Company depicting a woman buying groceries at a checkout counter with a line of people behind her.
November 14, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Feasting on Chemistry

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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