The Science History Institute Museum is closed for renovations.
The Othmer Library remains open by appointment.

Ever wondered what gives lift to cakes, or why a batch of cookies failed? What’s the secret? Science!

This First Friday, take a journey through the kitchen and the chemistry lab as we look at the delicious side of food science! Join us in exploring the chemistry of baking, browse a pop-up of vintage cookbooks, and learn about the less-than-savory ingredients added to food products throughout history. And—just in time for the holidays—stop by our hands-on craft station to make your own unique recipe card, with inspiration from our historical recipe collections!

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: “Dinner in December,” color print advertisement for Dow Chemical Company, 1944.

More events

Black ink illustration of one engineer advising another
February 5, 2025
Free

Transitioning to a Sustainable Chemical Industry: Lessons from History

At the T. T. Chao Symposium on Innovation experts in the history of the chemical industry will convene to identify a path to netzero, biodiversity protection, and the alleviation of chemical pollution.

February 10, 2025
Science on Tap

Animals in Historic Philadelphia: Food, Labor, and Industry

Learn about the surprising role of animals in shaping urban life in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

magazine ad featuring the earth wrapped in clear film
February 13, 2025
Joseph Priestley Society

Plastics Circularity: Past, Present, and Future

This ACS Webinar features a panel discussion on the efforts being made to move from a linear plastics economy to a circular one.

    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.