Happy 250th! Our museum will be OPEN 10am–7pm on July 3 and 10am–5pm on July 4.

Join us for special gallery tours and hands-on activities as part of Welcome America’s Philly Holiday Experience.

Science is all around us . . . literally! Explore the scientific marvels woven into the fabric of our daily existence, unraveling the story of our clothing’s evolution through time, and envisioning the scientific horizons that lie ahead. This family-friendly program explores the fascinating world of dyes and textiles.

Our fun, interactive activities are designed for science lovers of all ages. Try your hand at our fashion sketching activity and take an up-close look at interesting items in our handling collection relating to the colorful history of natural and synthetic dyes! 

During your visit, you can also check out our themed “drop-in” tours at 11:30am and 2pm. We will feature our “Materials for the Masses” tour, which explores the history of modern materials, with a special focus on game-changing synthetic textiles such as Nylon, Lycra, Spandex, and more. Witness how these fibers transformed our world, from fashion to medicine, spanning wartime to peacetime and beyond.

More events

Fellows working in Jacobs Reading Room
July 3, 2026
Library Programs & Activities

Othmer Library Tour

Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!

visitor touching an inert firework shell
July 3, 2026
For Families

Wawa Welcome America: Free Museum Day and First Friday

Join us in our museum for extended hours and family-friendly programming as part of Wawa Welcome America’s 4th of July festivities!

visitor viewing fireworks history exhibition
July 4, 2026
For Families

July 4th at the Science History Institute

Start your 4th of July celebration at the Science History Institute and learn about the science and history behind the beautiful displays you’ll see later in the evening.

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