Please note our museum hours while we undergo renovations.
Museum HoursWed–Fri: 12:30pm–5pm | Sat: 10am–5pm

KABOOM! POP! CRACK!

Join us next spring for an explosive history of fireworks!

With objects ranging from historic rare books to the latest pyrotechnic technologies, this exhibition features a globe-spinning story that spans centuries. Explore the science of celebrations as we mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, right here in Old City Philadelphia.

This event is FREE, but registration is required. Signups will open in early 2026!

Featured image: Panorama of the National Firework Display at Hyde Park, 19th July, 1919, colorized illustration from Pyrotechnics: The History and Art of Firework Making, 1922.

More events

frontispiece plate of illustrations of the blood spectra
April 26, 2025
For Families

Stories of Science: Earth Month

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

mechanical teddy bear
May 2, 2025
First Fridays

First Friday: 80s Night

Get ready to travel back in time to the fabulous 1980s! Whether you rocked the Jazzercise leotard or spent hours trying to solve the Rubik’s Cube, we’ve got something for everyone.

group of women standing around a lab table with periodic table in background
May 3, 2025
Drop-In Tours

Women in Chemistry Tour

Drop in for a tour highlighting the central role of women in shaping chemistry and the material sciences throughout history.

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