The Science History Institute is closed for Independence Day on Friday, July 4, and there will be no First Friday event.
proclamation showing illustration of William Penn

Philadelphia Mayor Declares June 10 ‘Science History Day’

Official proclamation invites the public to join the Institute for ‘Curious Histories Fest: A Taste of Water,’ a free, daylong celebration focused on the science and history of water.

May 22, 2023
woman holding up a glass of water
Detail of “Read How to Get Soft Water Right Out of Your Faucet!”

Mayor James F. Kenney has declared Saturday, June 10, 2023, “Science History Day” in Philadelphia and invites the public to attend the Institute’s first annual Curious Histories Fest. The official proclamation also urges “all citizens to be aware of the commendable efforts of the Science History Institute to further scientific research, learning, and student engagement for so many in our region and beyond.”

An annual celebration of science, history, exploration, and experimentation, our inaugural Curious Histories Fest is centered on the theme “A Taste of Water.” Discover how water can affect the taste of food and beverages by sampling pizza, iced tea, oysters, bagels, and beer. Attendees can also enjoy hands-on crafts, engaging talks, highlights from our collections, special guests, live music, and so much more.

Participating vendors and partners >>

Curious Histories Fest: A Taste of Water will take place on Saturday, June 10 from 11am to 3pm at the Science History Institute at 315 Chestnut Street in Old City Philadelphia. This event is open to all ages. Admission and programs are free; beer and food trucks are pay-as-you-go. No reservations are necessary.

Major funding for Curious Histories Fest is provided by the Bolte Family Foundation. Additional support provided by sustaining sponsors American Chemical Society, Dow, Eastman Chemical Company, Univar Solutions, and Westlake Corporation, and contributing sponsors Hallstar and Hexion.

More News

scholars doing research in a library
news

Science History Institute Welcomes 2025–2026 Beckman Center Fellows

Scholars from around the world will study a wide range of topics in the history and social studies of chemistry, chemical engineering, and the life sciences.

kids and parents sitting on the floor
news

2025 Curious Histories Fest Celebrates School Lunch History with Pickle Tastings, Cooking Demos, Ice Cream, and More

Visitors explore the science of food—and fun!—at Institute’s “What’s for Lunch?” festival.

people in a library looking at books
news

Science History Institute Launches Library Tour Program

Guided tours of the Othmer Library of Chemical History begin June 18.

    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.