Science After Hours: Rhythm & Booms Returns to The Franklin Institute With a Festival-Style Night of Music, Science, and Explosive Experiments

Science After Hours: Rhythm & Booms Returns to The Franklin Institute With a Festival-Style Night of Music, Science, and Explosive Experiments

Published on March 30, 2026

Science After Hours: Rhythm & Booms Returns to The Franklin Institute With a Festival-Style Night of Music, Science, and Explosive Experiments

The Franklin Institute is bringing back its popular Science After Hours series with a high-energy edition titled “Rhythm & Booms,” taking place on Friday, April 10, from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Blending the vibes of a music festival with the curiosity of a science museum, this 21+ event invites guests to dance, explore, and experiment their way through an unforgettable night.

“Rhythm & Booms” transforms the museum into a fully immersive playground of sound, rhythm, and hands-on discovery. Guests can roam freely through exhibits and galleries while live bands and DJs provide the soundtrack for the night.

From bass-driven beats to interactive sound installations, the entire experience is designed to explore the connection between music and science—culminating in the night’s signature moment: live, explosive science demonstrations from The Franklin Institute team that quite literally bring the “booms.”

This isn’t just a party—it’s a fully interactive experience packed with unique programming and creative activations throughout the museum.

Highlights include:

A full takeover of the Fels Planetarium by All My Friends DJ (AMFDJ), transforming the space into a cinematic, club-like environment
A 360-degree visual experience by Luminous Abstract, allowing guests to interact with projected art in real time
A deep dive into the science of sound with Osborne Audiology at Drexel University
Hands-on exploration of vinyl vibrations with Consonant Collective
Live theremin performances by Mano Divina, with the chance to try the instrument yourself
High-energy Brazilian rhythms from Rob Curto’s Forró for All
Interactive drumming and movement sessions with Rhythmetri
A behind-the-scenes look at brewing from Wissahickon Brewing Company, including their exclusive event beer, Treble Maker
Tastings from Stateside Vodka, featuring new products like Blueberry Lemonade Surfside

Guests can also explore instrument-making with Tonecrafte Luthiery, experiment with analog synths, learn life-saving CPR skills, and discover cutting-edge technology like drones used for wildfire management.

Throughout the evening, bars will be set up across the museum with food and drink available for purchase, curated by Seravezza Events. And for those looking to take a break from the dance floor, the museum’s rooftop will be open for stargazing, offering sweeping views of the city (weather permitting).

How to Get Tickets

Tickets are available at fi.edu. Every ticket also includes a limited-edition “Rhythm & Booms” lapel pin, making it a collectible keepsake from the night.

Guests are encouraged to lean into the theme and dress like they’re headed to their favorite music festival—bold fits, statement pieces, and all-out creativity are welcome.