Please note our museum hours while we undergo renovations.
Museum HoursWed–Fri: 12:30pm–5pm | Sat: 10am–5pm
illustration of a red, white, and blue firework
Illustration of Japanese fireworks, from Pyrotechnics: The History and Art of Firework Making, 1922.

Join us for an exciting day of revolutionary science and the history of fireworks!

The Science History Institute is excited to join more than 20 other museums, historic sites, and local businesses in Philadelphia’s Historic District for the second annual Red, White, and Blue To-Do.

We’re featuring special programming about the history and science behind the Revolutionary War:

  • learn about the science behind the dyes and textiles of British soldiers’ red coats
  • get a sneak peek at our upcoming exhibition on the history of fireworks
  • participate in our Science and the Revolution scavenger hunt
  • discover what life was like during the American Revolution

Visit the Red, White, and Blue To-Do official website to learn about the daylong, star-spangled festivities in the nation’s most historic square mile.

Admission is free and reservations are not required.

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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