Our museum will reopen at 12:30pm on Wednesday, March 19. Pardon our appearance as renovations continue.

Join us for a chilling First Friday event dedicated to the fascinating world of food science and technology that keeps our treats cool and refreshing!

Ever heard of cold cooking? Explore the art no-bake desserts like Jell-O and ice box cakes/cookies. Discover the secrets behind keeping things cool with our engaging handling collection displays on the history of coolers and what we do to food to prevent it from melting. Learn about the science behind an assortment of refreshing beverages including Kool Aid, iced tea, and lemonade. And enjoy free ice cream sandwiches inspired by Martha Washington’s original ice cream recipes.

Don’t miss this cool and educational evening filled with fun, food, and freezing cold science! It’s also the last chance to see BOLD: Color from Test Tube to Textile before the exhibition closes August 3.

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.


Featured image: “Frozen in Plastic,” advertisement for Dow Chemical Company, 1942.

More events

Illustration on bright green background with figures on cards representing vegetable farmers
March 13, 2025
Joseph Priestley Society

Functional Food and Drink: What’s for Lunch in the Global Cafeteria?

This virtual panel will discuss what functional food means in the U.S. and other countries and how chemistry helps deliver protein, carbohydrates, fat, and flavor.

Book cover image for "Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America"
March 19, 2025
Programs, Lectures & Talks

Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America

Professor and author Beth Linker reveals the surprising origins of our concerns over poor posture.

cover of comic book
March 22, 2025
Drop-In Tours

School Lunch Tour

This interactive drop-in tour reveals how food scientists, the government, and the public have shaped in-school nutrition.

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